Minority leader apologizes, withdraws ‘recruitment scam claims’ against Muntaka

The Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, in a rare display of parliamentary humility, has officially retracted and apologized for controversial remarks about the Interior Minister, Muntaka Mohammed Mubarak.

The friction stemmed from claims of recruitment scams into the security services made during last week’s State of the Nation Address (SONA), which the Interior Minister flagged as an attack on his personal and professional integrity.

Addressing the House on Wednesday, Afenyo-Markin clarified that, while he had concerns about the Interior Ministry, it was never his intention to damage the Minister’s reputation.

“When a member feels strongly about a statement which is unintended, the right thing to do is to withdraw and apologise,” the Minority Leader stated, emphasizing that responsible leadership requires the humility to admit when a message has been misunderstood.

He further assured the House that any future critiques regarding the Ministry of Interior would be handled through formal, official channels rather than public floor debates.

Interior Minister Muntaka Mubarak, clearly moved by the situation, described the initial allegations as painful. Drawing on his extensive tenure in parliamentary leadership, he reminded colleagues of the importance of mutual respect in governance.

Despite the initial hurt, the Minister opted for reconciliation over further conflict: “Who am I to play God? I accept it wholeheartedly.”

He reiterated that his ministry remains open to feedback and scrutiny from all members of the House.

To ensure the matter leaves no lasting stain on the Minister’s legacy or the House’s integrity, Hon. Muntaka requested that the disputed comments be expunged from the Hansard.

First Deputy Speaker Bernard Ahiafor, presiding over the session, granted the request. He directed that the disparaging remarks be struck from the official records, effectively treating the incident as if it never occurred.

The move is a positive step toward reducing the partisan friction that often characterizes the current Parliament.