Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin on Friday extended a heartfelt public apology to Deputy Minister-Designate for Health, Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah, following a parliamentary controversy over remarks he made questioning her nomination.
The apology came during Dr. Ayensu-Danquah’s vetting session before Parliament’s Appointments Committee, where Afenyo-Markin, in a rare show of contrition, acknowledged that his earlier comments may have caused offence and strained their professional relationship.
The controversy began during a heated debate in the House, when Afenyo-Markin appeared to cast doubt on the basis for Dr. Ayensu-Danquah’s nomination, alluding to what he termed “strange reasons” and implying that her selection overlooked other qualified female MPs such as Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings. The statement sparked public and parliamentary criticism, especially from women’s rights advocates and MPs who saw it as patronising and undermining.
Seeking to repair the damage, Afenyo-Markin used the vetting platform to directly address Dr. Ayensu-Danquah. “To the extent that…you felt I had crossed the red line, I say to you, I’m sorry,” he stated, inviting reconciliation and goodwill.
Dr. Ayensu-Danquah responded warmly, welcoming the apology and expressing hope for a more respectful and productive working relationship moving forward. “I’m very appreciative that you have taken this opportunity to apologise,” she said. “I’m very grateful and humbled.”
The exchange marked a rare moment of bipartisan civility and accountability in Ghana’s Parliament, earning praise from observers who saw it as a positive example of how elected officials can resolve conflicts with maturity and mutual respect.
As Dr. Ayensu-Danquah awaits formal confirmation of her appointment, the incident has highlighted the broader discourse around gender representation and professional recognition in politics, especially for women leaders navigating entrenched biases within the system.
