The Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has rendered an unqualified apology to the Minister-designate for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, and his wife over comments he made during a press conference regarding the vetting process. His apology came after claims that Ablakwa was “smuggled” into the vetting session with the help of the Majority caucus, along with his wife.
During a press briefing on Friday, January 31, the Minority caucus accused the Majority side of secretly facilitating the vetting of Ablakwa and Kwabena Mintah Akandoh without informing them. Afenyo-Markin alleged that Ablakwa was not originally scheduled for vetting on Thursday but had maneuvered his way in with the backing of his Majority colleagues. He further stated that Ablakwa’s wife was also “smuggled” into the vetting room—a remark that did not sit well with the Minister-designate or his spouse.
Ablakwa later expressed his displeasure, revealing that his wife was deeply affected by the comment. Recognizing the unintended harm his words had caused, Afenyo-Markin used the vetting session as an opportunity to make amends. He publicly apologized to Ablakwa and his wife, acknowledging that his statement was inappropriate.
“Let me unconditionally apologize to your wife for how my press statement came about and how she felt. I would feel bad if somebody said something about my own wife. It is fair because it is not an official matter,” Afenyo-Markin said during the vetting.
He went on to express his respect for Ablakwa and emphasized that he never intended to undermine or attack him personally. “I am sorry to your wife, dear, and for how my press conference was carried. I also say sorry to you. I have the utmost respect for you, and I will be the last person to run you down. So, I am sorry, and I am sorry to your wife,” he added.
This rare moment of humility and reconciliation between two key political figures was notable. In the often tense and highly competitive environment of Ghanaian politics, public apologies are uncommon, making Afenyo-Markin’s gesture a significant one.
While political disagreements and heated exchanges are common in Parliament, this incident serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting personal boundaries. It also highlights the need for political leaders to be mindful of their words, especially when they involve the families of their colleagues. Whether this apology will ease tensions between the two sides remains to be seen, but it certainly sets a precedent for maturity and respect in political discourse.
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