Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has lamented what he described as the Majority Caucus’s increasing disregard for democratic norms and parliamentary scrutiny.
Speaking on the floor of the House, Afenyo-Markin described the majority’s frequent use of its numerical strength to push through decisions without consensus, calling it a dangerous erosion of democratic values.
“We have witnessed on multiple occasions the Majority bulldozing its way through decision-making with little regard for consensus.But democracy isn’t majoritarian tyranny, it’s about balance, inclusion, and accountability.”
He criticized the Majority’s growing reliance on Certificates of Urgency to fast-track bills, arguing that the practice undermines due diligence and weakens Parliament’s oversight role.
“Their sudden and increasing reliance on certificates of urgency for every bill is deeply troubling. It’s being used not as a tool for efficiency, but as a weapon to railroad legislation, sidestepping scrutiny and eroding the very oversight role that is essential to our democracy.”
The Minority Leader emphasized that scrutiny and debate are not acts of obstruction, but vital components of a healthy parliamentary system.
“We encourage our colleagues to bear with us, even as we put forward our arguments to scrutinize. They must not see it as frustrating them, but as our bit in enriching parliamentary democracy.”
He called for restraint and collaboration, warning that unchecked power sets a dangerous precedent.
“The precedent being set by the Majority, where power is exercised without restraint, must not be encouraged. Democracy thrives not on domination, but on dialogue.”
