Patricia Appiagyei Rejects ECOWAS Parliament Nomination, Slams Process as Divisive and Unlawful

Deputy Minority Leader Patricia Appiagyei has firmly declined her nomination to the ECOWAS Parliament, calling the process irregular, politically harmful, and lacking transparency.

In a letter to the Speaker of Parliament dated Monday, July 22, 2025, Appiagyei expressed shock at being named to replace Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, who is currently serving a legitimate term as a Deputy Speaker in the ECOWAS Parliament. She said she was neither informed nor consulted about the decision and strongly rejected any suggestion that she sought to take her leader’s place.

“I have not given my consent and find this move deeply troubling—it seems designed to create friction between me and my Leader,” she stated.

The reshuffle, which was approved earlier that day in Parliament, also saw George Kweku Ricketts-Hagan appointed as Third Deputy Speaker, replacing Afenyo-Markin.

Appiagyei stressed that Afenyo-Markin’s term is protected by ECOWAS rules, which allow removal only under specific conditions—none of which apply. She warned that any attempt to replace him could breach ECOWAS protocols and provoke institutional backlash.

She further criticized the Majority for making unilateral decisions without involving the Minority leadership, labeling the move a breach of parliamentary norms. “This was done without my knowledge or the Minority Leader’s,” she said, condemning what she called a lack of due process.

While acknowledging the need for gender inclusion, she insisted it should be based on genuine consultation—not political convenience. She officially declined the nomination and called for the original delegation—Afenyo-Markin, Anyimadu Antwi, and Bryan Acheampong—to be reinstated.