Afenyo-Markin defends Ken Ofori-Atta’s absence, says former Minister is undergoing treatment in the US

A heated exchange unfolded in Parliament on Friday, November 21, 2025, after Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga demanded clarity on the continued stay of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta in the United States, despite facing criminal charges in Ghana.

Mr. Ayariga pressed Deputy Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin for an explanation, questioning both the timing of the trip and the sudden change in Mr. Ofori-Atta’s choice of medical care.

According to him, the circumstances suggested a deliberate delay. He argued that the former minister’s absence was becoming increasingly difficult to justify, especially given his history of receiving treatment locally.

“Ken Ofori-Atta was sick when he was a Finance Minister; we all saw it, and he stayed in Ghana.

“How come today, he has refused to return when he’s being sought after by the law enforcement agencies?” Mr. Ayariga asked, implying that the relocation of his treatment raised legitimate concerns.

In response, Mr. Afenyo-Markin firmly dismissed the suggestion that the former minister was avoiding accountability. He insisted that Mr. Ofori-Atta’s condition and whereabouts had been openly communicated to the public.

“Mr. Ofori-Atta has been bold to disclose his medical condition.

“Let it be known that we all may go through health issues one way or the other. Don’t create the impression that he’s refused to return to Ghana,” Mr. Afenyo-Markin said, urging MPs not to politicise health matters.

He further underscored that the former minister had not concealed the purpose of his stay abroad.

“According to him, Ofori-Atta “has told the entire country that he is unwell and receiving treatment in the United States.”

Mr. Afenyo-Markin insisted that accusations of evasion were unfounded, stressing that Mr. Ayariga must “cease creating the impression that Ofori-Atta has refused to return to Ghana to face accountability.”