Axleander Afenyo-Markin, the Majority Leader in Parliament, issued a stern warning to Ghana’s political leaders, urging collective action to address mounting public discontent or risk widespread protests akin to the violent demonstrations that erupted in Kenya following the disputed 2017 presidential election.
In a parliamentary session on Wednesday, July 3, Afenyo-Markin, representing the Effutu constituency, reiterated the need for politicians to set aside partisan differences and confront the root causes of public dissatisfaction. He stressed the importance of unity in this crucial moment.
Afenyo-Markin emphasized the potential consequences of inaction, stating, “The recent Gen Z activism in Kenya serves as a stark warning. To avert similar scenarios in Ghana, the political class must collaborate proactively and comprehensively to address the underlying issues causing public discontent.”
He stressed that amidst political manoeuvres, leaders must remain attuned to public expectations and renew their commitment to a national agenda that harnesses the potential of Ghana’s youth through job creation and skills development while fostering inclusive development through equitable resource distribution and effective governance.
Echoing these sentiments, Nii Lantey Vanderpuye, Ododiodiodio MP and witness to the protests in Kenya, underscored the urgency of addressing youth unemployment and perceptions of governmental corruption and inefficacy.
“We cannot ignore the growing frustration. When people perceive political impunity and a lack of responsiveness from their leaders, they will inevitably react,” Vanderpuye cautioned during the session.
As Ghana navigates these challenges, stakeholders are urged to prioritize dialogue and decisive action to defuse tensions and restore public confidence in governance.
Source:newsghana.com.gh