Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has justified the Appointments Committee’s decision not to question Linda Obenewaa Ocloo Akweley, the Greater Accra Regional Minister-designate, during her appearance before the committee. The committee has faced widespread criticism for its approach, with many questioning the rationale behind excusing the nominee without any vetting. Critics argue that bypassing the questioning process undermines transparency and accountability.
Ocloo Akweley arrived at the vetting session accompanied by chiefs and members from both the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC), including former Interior Minister Henry Quartey and former Greater Accra Regional Minister Titus Glover. After introducing herself, she was excused without facing any questions. In an interview, Afenyo-Markin defended the committee’s decision, explaining that members are already familiar with the strengths and weaknesses of the ministerial nominees.
When asked whether time constraints played a role in the committee’s decision, Afenyo-Markin dismissed the notion. He did not confirm whether the committee would recall the nominee, stating only that her report had been debated and approved on the floor of Parliament. Afenyo-Markin also pointed out that nominees are not always required to answer questions, citing the late veteran politician and elder statesman Joseph Henry Mensah as a precedent.
