I Crossed the Line – Afenyo-Markin Apologises to Dr. Ayensu-Danquah

Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has apologized to Deputy Minister-Designate for Health, Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah, after comments he made in Parliament drew criticism from across the political divide.

Speaking in Parliament during the vetting of President Mahama’s deputy ministers, Afenyo-Markin expressed deep remorse, acknowledging that he had gone too far during an earlier exchange.

“No, I had crossed the red line. I say to you, I’m sorry, is that fair?” he began, addressing Dr. Ayensu-Danquah directly. He explained the motivation behind his apology, referencing his own values and responsibilities.

“I needed to clarify the point. We are on national TV, and I want to be sensitive to your feelings because I am a husband and a father, and I wouldn’t want anybody to do that to my wife or my sister.”

He added that his apology was rooted in his Christian principles: “So, once you feel that way and you have expressed it or somebody has expressed it on your behalf, it’s my duty to react to it as a Christian who wants to perfect my Christian life. So, I’m sorry once again.”

Dr. Ayensu-Danquah graciously accepted the apology. “That is fair, and I’m very appreciative that you have taken this opportunity to apologise.

“And I hope that moving forward, we will have a better relationship. And I’m very grateful and humbled. Thank you.”

The exchange followed tense moments in Parliament on July 14, 2025, when Afenyo-Markin questioned the basis of Dr. Ayensu-Danquah’s nomination as Deputy Minister for Health.

His remarks implied favouritism and referenced other female MPs, including Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings and Helen Ntoso, suggesting that Ayensu-Danquah’s appointment came at their expense.

“My colleague, your name is not even on the list yet. We have only heard rumours that you will be facing the Appointments Committee, and this is what you choose to be doing?” he had said during the debate.

“You came to meet Dr Zanetor here, and for some strange reason, it appears your name is being considered when even party stalwarts like Helen Ntoso are still waiting.”

In response, Dr. Ayensu-Danquah stood her ground, asking for portions of the comment to be struck from the parliamentary record.

“Speaker, it makes it very difficult for women to speak when we face veiled threats and passive-aggressive behaviour.

“I respectfully request that part of the statement be expunged from the records because I was offended by it, having done nothing to deserve such treatment.”

Analysis of Afenyo-Markin’s apology to Dr. Ayensu-Danquah

Alexander Afenyo-Markin appears to be grasping for relevance in opposition, often resorting to trivial distractions and reckless remarks, as seen in this instance.

The NPP’s poor showing in the 2024 elections has left many within the party, including Afenyo-Markin, visibly demoralised.

In the face of this reality, he seems to be adopting unorthodox and sometimes unnecessary approaches in taking on the government.

That said, it’s commendable that he rendered an apology. He would do well to focus on his core responsibility—organising the Minority to provide constructive scrutiny, rather than making needless statements.

Source: Liberalprint.com