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Drama unfolded during the vetting of minister-designate for Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts, Dzifa Abla Gomashie, as Afenyo-Markin, Ranking Member of the Appointments Committee, faced backlash for his intense line of questioning regarding the nominee’s personal life.
Afenyo-Markin’s inquiries centered on Dzifa Gomashie’s CV, specifically her residence at Lakeside Estate in Accra. After confirming that she owned the property, he asked about the “root of title” the original owner from whom the property was acquired. He also suggested that the nominee provide the committee’s leadership with documentation to substantiate the claim, should it be required.
This line of questioning prompted Bernard Ahiafor, Chairman of the Appointments Committee, to interject, questioning the relevance of Afenyo-Markin’s focus on the nominee’s private affairs. Ahiafor likened Afenyo-Markin’s probing to the actions of the recently formed “Operation Recover All Loot” (ORAL) task force. The five-member team, established by President-elect John Dramani Mahama, is tasked with leading anti-corruption efforts to recover state assets allegedly misappropriated under the previous administration.
“It’s as if you’re part of ORAL,” Ahiafor quipped, drawing laughter from committee members. He emphasized that the vetting process was not an investigative tribunal and urged Afenyo-Markin to focus on matters relevant to Dzifa Gomashie’s professional competence and ministerial aspirations.
In response, Afenyo-Markin, who also serves as the Minority Leader, defended his approach, stating, “The tables have turned,” implying that the current administration should expect the same level of scrutiny it had previously applied to others.
Dzifa Gomashie, a seasoned creative arts advocate and former Deputy Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts, remained composed throughout the exchanges. She is seeking confirmation to lead the ministry under President Mahama’s second administration, a role that will see her spearhead initiatives in tourism and cultural development.
The vetting, which marked the committee’s fourth sitting, continues to attract attention as members of Parliament probe nominees in preparation for the formation of President Mahama’s government.
Here’s how things unfolded:
Afenyo-Markin: “You indicated in your CV that you live at Lakeside Estate, Adenta, Accra. *Mentions house number*. Is that your own property?”
Dzifa Gomashie: “Mr. Chairman, it is my own property. Thank you.”
Afenyo-Markin: “From whom did your root of title originate? The person from whom you originally acquired the property?”
Dzifa Gomashie: “I bought it from the Lakeside Company.”
Afenyo-Markin: “So Lakeside acquired the land from the government, as we can see from your lease?”
Dzifa Gomashie: “Mr. Chairman, I do not recall the details. I had a lawyer who facilitated the transaction, and I do not recall the specifics.”
Afenyo-Markin: “If given the opportunity, would you be willing to share the title with the leadership of the committee, so we can understand the root of the title?”
Dzifa Gomashie: “I certainly would, if it is demanded.”
Committee Chairman Bernard Ahiafor: “Hon. Ranking Member, it’s as if you’re part of ORAL.”
Afenyo-Markin: “A little bit of medication on your tongue, and you see how it is!”
Dzifa Gomashie appeared before the Parliamentary Appointments Committee on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, for her vetting, which will determine her confirmation as the substantive Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts.
Source:NKONKONSA.com
