Minority Warns Afenyo-Markin Against Disseminating Misinformation on Free SHS Bill

The Minority in Parliament has strongly cautioned the Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, against spreading false information that stirs public sentiment against the National Democratic Congress (NDC) regarding the proposed Free SHS bill.

On June 24, Afenyo-Markin accused the Minority, particularly Akatsi North MP Peter Kwasi Nortsu-Kotoe, of opposing the bill aimed at enshrining the Free SHS policy into law and ensuring its continuity across successive governments.

He alleged that the Minority’s actions indicated a deliberate attempt to obstruct the bill’s passage, arguing that legislation is crucial for effectively regulating the policy, notwithstanding the constitution’s endorsement of Free SHS as an aspirational goal.

However, on June 25, Minority Chief Whip Kwame Governs Agbodza refuted these claims, dismissing Afenyo-Markin’s allegations as baseless.

Mr. Agbodza emphasized that there is currently no bill concerning Free SHS before the House for the Minority to oppose.

“Mr. Speaker, it must be clear that there is no Free SHS bill under consideration in Parliament, and the Majority Leader should refrain from disseminating misinformation,” he cautioned.

Meanwhile, Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, leader of the Movement for Change, has urged for a thorough review of the Free SHS policy.

While acknowledging the policy’s success in improving access to education, he emphasized the importance of evaluating its effectiveness after nearly eight years.

Speaking on JoyNews on June 25, Kyerematen outlined criteria for the review, including assessing financial sustainability and infrastructural needs.

He underscored that without carefully analyzing the financial implications, the Free SHS policy risks faltering despite its positive intentions.