Honorable Alexander Afenyo-Markin, leader of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) caucus in Parliament and MP for Effutu Municipality, has raised concerns that public sector workers could face salary delays if the National Democratic Congress (NDC) continues to obstruct the approval of the budget for the first quarter of 2025. Afenyo-Markin accused the NDC of intentionally delaying parliamentary proceedings, which he says jeopardizes the timely disbursement of salaries.
Afenyo-Markin Blames NDC for Political Deadlock and Potential Salary Delays
At a press briefing on Thursday, November 7, following the Speaker’s indefinite adjournment of Parliament for the second time in a few weeks due to a lack of business, Honorable Alexander Afenyo-Markin voiced concerns over the ongoing political deadlock. He blamed the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for obstructing parliamentary proceedings, warning that their actions could prevent the government from securing approval for public sector salaries.
“The NDC is creating chaos. They want to disrupt the system so Ghanaians cannot receive their pay, all in an effort to create the impression of lawlessness,” Afenyo-Markin stated.
Afenyo-Markin clarified that if Parliament delays passing the budget, the government will be unable to access the necessary funds to pay essential workers. He stressed that the government’s ability to disburse salaries to public sector employees depends on Parliament approving the budget. Without this approval, he cautioned, public servants could experience delays in receiving their pay. He also highlighted the broader consequences of such disruptions, including negative effects on the economy and public morale, especially as the country continues to face economic challenges.
Afenyo-Markin warned that the NDC’s actions were sending a negative signal both domestically and internationally regarding the stability of Ghana’s democracy and its capacity to function effectively. He asserted that the NDC’s obstructionist tactics were part of a larger strategy to block crucial government initiatives, including the Free Senior High School (SHS) program. He further accused the NDC of collaborating with the Speaker of Parliament to delay key legislation necessary for future educational reforms.
As the deadlock continues, Afenyo-Markin vowed that the NPP caucus would not allow the NDC to undermine the government’s agenda or hinder its success
