The Minority Leader of Parliament, Alexander Kwamena Afenyo‑Markin has called on the Speaker of Parliament to grant the Minority a hearing on its motion challenging the dismissal of thousands of public sector workers following the 2024 general elections.
Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, Mr Afenyo‑Markin said the issue, which affects the livelihoods of more than 15,000 Ghanaian youths, has remained unresolved despite several attempts by the Minority to have it debated.
He recalled that the matter arose from a directive issued by the Chief of Staff instructing state agencies to terminate the appointments of individuals employed after the 2024 elections.
According to him, although the directive was specific, its implementation led to what he described as “excesses,” with some workers who had been lawfully employed as far back as 2017 also losing their jobs.
The Minority Leader explained that the Minority initially filed a motion on the matter, which was admitted by the Speaker but later faced a preliminary objection raised by the Majority Leader. The objection was upheld by the First Deputy Speaker.
Subsequently, the Minority filed a motion for review under the rules of the House.
Mr Afenyo‑Markin said debates on the review motion commenced and assurances were given that discussions would continue the following Tuesday to enable the Speaker to rule on the matter.
However, he noted that the motion has repeatedly appeared on the Order Paper without being taken due to intervening issues.
Describing the situation as urgent, the Minority Leader stressed that the dismissals have left thousands of affected workers unemployed, with serious consequences for their families and dependents.
He also referenced comments previously made by the Minister for Employment and Labour Relations, who acknowledged receiving petitions on the matter and initiating investigations.
Mr Afenyo‑Markin argued that this should not prevent Parliament from addressing the issue in the interest of good governance.
He therefore appealed directly to the Speaker to grant the Minority time to be heard, noting that only the Speaker can preside over and determine the fate of the motion.
Source: happyghana.com
