The Minister-nominee for Communications, Samuel George, has condemned what he describes as “despicable behavior” by the Ranking Member of the Appointment Committee, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, toward the Clerk to the committee, Gifty Jiagge Gobah.
The Minority MPs on the committee had accused Madam Gobah of sidelining them in key areas of the vetting process, particularly during Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa’s session.
They pointed out that, under the previous administration, the same clerk had ensured the Minority received draft reports before they were signed.
In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday, February 2, Samuel George expressed his outrage over what he called “shameful” and “misogynistic” conduct. He stated that such behavior was unbecoming of a leader in Parliament and asserted that he was certain Mr. Afenyo-Markin would not have acted in a similar way toward a male Clerk.
“I am appalled at the despicable behaviour of @AfenyoMarkin towards Madam Gifty Jiagge Gobah,” Samuel George wrote. “This shameful behaviour is unbecoming of a Leader of the august House. I am absolutely certain he would not have dared to do this to a male Clerk of Parliament.”
Sam George emphasized that Madam Gobah, who has served Parliament for 18 years, deserves the respect her position commands. He urged members of society and Parliament to condemn such actions and called for the issue to be formally raised with the Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin.
“After Parliament passed the Affirmative Action Law, we cannot condone or be complicit in such uncouth behavior,” he added.
He also praised Madam Gobah for her poise and composure under pressure, offering words of encouragement: “Madam Gifty Jiagge Gobah, I and many more decent people stand with you. Be encouraged and stand strong with your head held high. Your poise and composure even when you were under the barrage of insults is remarkable. Such a role model for our daughters.”
The incident has sparked a wider conversation about the treatment of parliamentary staff and the conduct expected from leaders within the House.
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