After a tense standoff between key members of the Appointments Committee, the vetting of deputy ministerial nominees is set to continue today, with the Minority now fully participating in the process.

Their return follows Wednesday’s heated session, which saw a walkout and the rejection of three nominees.

The controversy erupted when Ranking Member Alexander Afenyo-Markin clashed with Committee Chairman Bernard Ahiafor over a request for Deputy Attorney General and Minister for Justice-designate, Srem-Sai, to perform a traditional dance.

When the nominee declined to perform ‘Agbadza’ and instead mentioned his preference for ‘Akpi’ and ‘Borborbor,’ Afenyo-Markin insisted he demonstrate the alternative. Ahiafor swiftly overruled the request.

"Honourable nominee, the question is overruled," the Chairman declared.

Displeased with the ruling, Afenyo-Markin accused Ahiafor of acting arbitrarily.

"Chairman, if you decide to be whimsical and capricious, it will not advance the work of this committee," he argued, justifying his request as an effort to educate Ghanaians on lesser-known traditions.

Ahiafor, however, deemed Afenyo-Markin’s remarks inappropriate and demanded a retraction. The Ranking Member refused.

"You rudely overruled me," Afenyo-Markin shot back, standing his ground.

The tension culminated in Ahiafor barring Afenyo-Markin from further questioning and discharging the nominee. In response, the Minority boycotted the session and rejected the nominations of Srem-Sai, Alhassan Suhuyini (Deputy Roads Minister-designate), and Yussif Sulemana (Deputy Lands Minister-designate), citing concerns over fairness in the vetting process.

Despite the walkout, Ahiafor proceeded with the vetting in their absence. Before exiting, Afenyo-Markin hinted at a possible return, depending on how proceedings unfolded.

"On Friday, God willing, we will be available, and if the posture remains the same, we will advise ourselves on the next line of action," he stated.

As anticipated, the Minority has rejoined the process today, contributing to government business. Nominees appearing before the committee include Gizella Tettey-Agbotui (Works, Housing & Water Resources) and Rita Naa Odoley Sowah (Local Government, Chieftaincy & Religious Affairs).

Those who have already faced vetting include Thomas Nyarko Ampem (Finance), John Kofi Setor Dumelo (Food & Agriculture), Samson Ahi (Trade, Agribusiness & Industry), Yussif Issaka Jajah (Tourism, Culture & Creative Arts), and Clement Abas Apaak (Education).

With the Minority back at the table, expectations are high for a smoother vetting process moving forward.