Political Analyst Siaw Mandela Condemns Afenyo-Markin’s ‘Democracy Is Under Attack’ Statement, Says Expecting the President to Personally Receive a Petition Was Unreasonable

Political Analyst Siaw Manddela has criticised Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin’s claim that “democracy is under attack” following the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) demonstration, describing the expectation for President John Dramani Mahama to personally receive the petition as unreasonable. Speaking in an interview with Nhyiraba Kwabena Asirifi on the Ghana Nti Morning Show on ICADTV, Mr. Manddela said the NPP had the right to organise a demonstration, but questioned the timing of the protest, arguing that it showed a lack of sympathy towards the families of the eight officials who lost their lives. He said Ghana’s political divisions have affected the country’s sense of unity and compassion, adding that it was unfortunate that some people celebrate the death of individuals because of their political affiliation. “I was sad but not disappointed because if someone from one political party dies, sometimes people from the other side celebrate. Partisan politics has destroyed the love we have for each other,” he stated. Mr. Manddela further described the NPP as an arrogant party and said some actions and comments from its leaders, particularly Alexander Afenyo-Markin, were affecting the party’s image. He also condemned recent comments made by the Minority Leader directed at presidential staffer Nana Yaa Jantuah, urging political leaders to be mindful of their statements and promote respectful dialogue. According to Mr. Manddela, the failure of the Minority to participate in the memorial anniversary of the eight officials who lost their lives created the perception that they lacked sympathy. Edited by Angelina FOSUAA