Minority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has dismissed reports that audio or video recordings exist linking him to alleged acts of extortion, describing such claims as social media speculation.
Speaking to journalists when cultural troupes from Winneba paid a courtesy visit to his residence in Accra, Mr Afenyo-Markin said he has conducted himself with dignity and responsibility in the discharge of his duties as Minority Leader.
He said he remains conscious of the history and responsibility attached to the office, noting that he would not engage in conduct that could bring the position, his family or the New Patriotic Party into disrepute.
Mr Afenyo-Markin stressed that although he does not consider himself perfect, he would not be reckless in the performance of his parliamentary responsibilities.
“I have discharged my duty as a Minority Leader with all the dignity that must go with the office. I have always acknowledged that weight of history to do what is right. I’m not a perfect guy, but I won’t be reckless. I know what I have to do.”
The Effutu legislator was responding to reports circulating on social media alleging the existence of audio and video evidence that could implicate him in acts of extortion.
He categorically denied the existence of any such evidence, insisting that the allegations were unfounded.
“People talking about they have videos and audios; some people are playing games on social media. Nobody has any video of me doing anything, and I say so on my five points of fellowship.”
Mr Afenyo-Markin further stated that there was no audio recording of him engaging in any conduct that could embarrass him, his family or the NPP.
“Nobody has any audio of me doing anything to embarrass myself, my family, and the party. No, there’s nothing like that anywhere.”
He acknowledged that as a politician, he must contend with claims and allegations circulated through social media, but maintained that such reports would not distract him from his responsibilities.
The Minority Leader has previously indicated that he has taken legal steps in relation to allegations made against him and expressed confidence that the appropriate legal processes would help establish the facts and bring the matter to a conclusion.
Mr Afenyo-Markin also used the occasion to reiterate his concerns over the reported losses associated with the Bank of Ghana’s Domestic Gold Purchase Programme and the role of GoldBod.
He maintained that the reported losses, which he has linked to figures cited by the International Monetary Fund, require serious parliamentary and public scrutiny, arguing that the issue goes beyond partisan politics.
He urged authorities to focus on the details of the transactions, including the pricing of gold, commissions, bonuses, off-taker arrangements and other factors that may have contributed to the reported losses.
According to him, such scrutiny is necessary to protect the gains made in exchange-rate stability and prevent potential losses from placing further pressure on the economy.
Mr Afenyo-Markin said the focus should remain on issues that affect the public purse and the economic wellbeing of Ghanaians, rather than personal attacks and political exchanges.
