Nat’l Tymes News Desk
THE MAJORITY Leader and Leader of Government Business, Hon. Mahama Ayariga, has delivered a stinging response to the opposition NPP, accusing them of fear-mongering, resisting accountability, and distracting Ghanaians from real issues that sustain democracy.
Speaking after the end-of-year statement in Parliament, the Bawku Central MP said Ghana’s democracy can only survive if corruption is tackled head-on and governments deliver real social and economic benefits to the people.
He reminded the House that corruption has historically been one of the key reasons for military takeovers in Ghana and across the region. Responding directly to Minority Leader, Hon. Kwamina Afenyo-Markin, Ayariga dismissed claims that investigations into former ministers and board members amount to intimidation. He made it clear that accountability is not persecution.
“If you accept an executive position, you must be ready to account for your actions,” he said, stressing that the law applies to everyone, regardless of party affiliation.
He added that many leaders investigated in the past were given the chance to defend themselves and were cleared, proving that accountability strengthens democracy rather than weakens it.
Hon. Ayariga also criticised the NPP for constantly raising the issue of a so-called third term for President John Dramani Mahama, describing it as a deliberate distraction. He said President Mahama has never expressed any intention to seek a third term, and that the discussion only exists because of his growing popularity among Ghanaians.
“The future of this country will be decided by the people, not by propaganda,” he stated. Drawing from an experience with opposition politicians from Côte d’Ivoire, Ayariga said his advice to anyone worried about leadership continuity is simple: contest elections and win power, instead of spreading fear.
The Majority Leader praised the Speaker of Parliament for firm leadership and commended MPs and parliamentary staff for ensuring that business was conducted with responsibility and respect for democratic rules.
He noted that despite intense debates, Parliament successfully passed the 2026 Budget Statement after thorough scrutiny.
He further highlighted Parliament’s strong legislative output, pushing back against claims that the House is failing Ghanaians. Key bills passed include the repeal of the Covid Health Recovery Levy, the KNUST Bill, amendments to VAT, the Virtual Asset Service Providers Bill, the Okada legalisation bill, and the Ghana Sports Fund Bill.
According to Ayariga, these laws show a Parliament focused on solving problems and responding to public concerns, not one consumed by political drama.
He concluded by urging the opposition NPP to stop resisting accountability, abandon scare tactics, and support efforts to fight corruption and deliver real benefits to citizens, saying that is the only way democracy can truly be protected.
Source: Nationaltymes.com
