Majority Leader Ayariga’s Apology Raises Concerns
…Experts Call for Stronger Leadership in Parliament
In a recent incident, Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga’s apology for the raid on former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta’s home has sparked criticism from various quarters. The raid, which was carried out by a team of police and military operatives led by an officer believed to be from the National Security Coordinator’s Office, has raised concerns about the state of security and the need for accountability in Ghana.
During a parliamentary session on February 13, Ayariga informed the House that the National Security Coordinator had admitted that the raid was “regrettable and unfortunate.” The Majority Leader also stated that he had reached out to the Minister of the Interior, the Inspector General of Police, and the Minister of Defense, all of whom had assured him that such an incident would not happen again.
However, the Majority Leader’s actions have been met with criticism from political analysts and experts. They argue that Ayariga’s apology on behalf of the government was inappropriate, as he is not the minister responsible for national security, interior, or defense.
“The Majority Leader’s apology exposes the National Security Coordinator’s office to unnecessary scrutiny and potential backlash,” said Dr. Augustus Kwesi Amankwah, a security expert and lecturer at the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre. “As the leader of the House, Ayariga should have sought a more diplomatic approach to address the issue, rather than making a public apology on behalf of the government.”
Others have criticized Ayariga for what they perceive as a lack of assertiveness in dealing with the minority leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, who has been known for his aggressive tactics in the House.
“Ayariga needs to understand his role as the Majority Leader and stand up to the minority,” said Dr. Nana Ama Konadu, a political analyst. “Leaders like Alban Bagbin, Dr. Benjamin Kumbour, Haruna Iddrisu, and Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson have demonstrated that even in opposition, they were able to hold their ground and not allow the NPP to intimidate them.”
The incident has also raised questions about the need for stronger oversight and accountability within the country’s security apparatus. Experts argue that the government must take immediate steps to address the concerns and ensure that such incidents do not occur again in the future.
“This incident highlights the need for a comprehensive review of the security sector and the establishment of robust mechanisms to ensure transparency and accountability,” said Dr. Anning. “The government must take decisive action to restore public confidence in the security institutions and demonstrate its commitment to the rule of law.”
Security analyst, Richard Kumador, has condemned the act of politicians “speaking for security operations or taking responsibility for security agencies and thereby leading operations.” He says such circumstances lead to the committing of mistakes which jeopardize the work of the security agencies.
According to Kumador, explanation of security operations by politicians always breed miscommunication, citing the recent raid on the residence of the former Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta. He argues that it is wrong for the Majority Leader to accept responsibility for or defend an operation that was carried out by the National Security, unless he is the Minister assigned for such duties.
Kumador also criticized Ayariga’s naming of Richard Jakpa as the leader of the raid, stating that it creates disaffection for him, which is not good for the National Security.
Experts believe that Ayariga’s handling of the situation has raised concerns about his ability to effectively lead the House and stand up to the minority leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin. They argue that the Majority Leader needs to emulate the leadership style of past Majority Leaders, such as Alban Bagbin, Dr. Benjamin Kumbour, Haruna Iddrisu, and Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, who were able to hold their ground even in opposition.
As the Majority Leader, Ayariga’s role is crucial in setting the tone and direction of the House. Analysts and experts believe that he must rise to the occasion and demonstrate the kind of leadership that the NDC and the people of Ghana expect from their representatives. This includes standing up to the minority, holding the government accountable, and ensuring that the security sector operates within the bounds of the law.
The raid on Ofori-Atta’s home has highlighted the broader issue of security sector accountability in Ghana. Experts argue that the government must take immediate action to review the security sector and establish robust mechanisms to ensure transparency and accountability. This, they believe, is essential for restoring public confidence in the country’s security institutions and demonstrating the government’s commitment to the rule of law.
Source: Innocent Samuel Appiah
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