Minority in Parliament Calls for Removal of Dafeamekpor as Majority Chief Whip

The minority in Parliament has called for the removal of Rockson-Nelson Etse Kwami Dafeamekpor from his role as Majority Chief Whip, citing concerns over his alleged disruptive behaviour and lack of diplomatic skill in managing parliamentary affairs.

At a press conference on Friday, January 31, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin criticised Dafeamekpor’s leadership style, describing him as a bully and accusing him of undermining the authority of Bernard Ahiafor, the Chairman of the Appointments Committee.

Afenyo-Markin expressed that Dafeamekpor’s conduct has been a major point of contention within the Parliamentary Chamber, negatively impacting parliamentary proceedings and creating disharmony within the majority side.

“Dafeamekpor has gained notoriety for shouting, yelling, undermining his own chairman, interrupting proceedings, and undermining his own majority leader,” Afenyo-Markin said, while calling for a reevaluation of Dafeamekpor’s position as Majority Chief Whip.

The minority leader further emphasised that Dafeamekpor’s aggressive approach to leadership is more suited to opposition politics than to his current position in government.

“If he thinks that he is still in opposition and he would be a bully, then he will meet his meter,” Afenyo-Markin warned.

He reminded Dafeamekpor that the role of the Majority Chief Whip is to be a key negotiator and a diplomatic figure in Parliament, a responsibility that requires a shift in approach from the combative tactics employed while in opposition.

In his remarks, Afenyo-Markin urged President Mahama and his government to reconsider their choice of Dafeamekpor for the role, stressing that a more diplomatic and measured approach is needed to manage parliamentary affairs effectively. “The majority chief’s role is to be a diplomat in the chamber. If he did so successfully in opposition, now he is in government,” he stated.

The call for Dafeamekpor’s removal has ignited debate within the political sphere, with some advocating for his dismissal and others defending his leadership.

However, it remains to be seen whether the President and the government will heed the minority’s request and take action regarding the Majority Chief Whip’s conduct.