Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Member of Parliament (MP) for Effutu and current Deputy Majority Leader, has stated that he would accept the role of Minority Leader if appointed in the 9th Parliament.
Speaking to the media in Parliament, Afenyo-Markin clarified his previous remarks regarding sitting on the Minority bench, which had sparked some confusion.
In the 8th Parliament, Afenyo-Markin had mentioned that it would be “spiritually inappropriate” for him to sit on the Minority side.
However, he explained that these comments were made in the context of his role as Majority Leader, which would make sitting on the Minority bench unsuitable at the time.
“I remain the leader of government business and Majority Leader until January 6, 2025. It was inappropriate for me to sit on the Minority bench when I wasn’t the Minority Leader,” he said.
Now, with the changes expected in the 9th Parliament, Afenyo-Markin has made it clear that he would be ready to sit on the Minority side if he is chosen as Minority Leader.
“If on January 7, I am appointed Minority Leader, I will gladly take my seat on the Minority bench and hold them to account,” he added.
Afenyo-Markin’s comments come at a time of heightened political tensions in Parliament. These tensions have been exacerbated by the Speaker’s decision to declare the seats of certain MPs vacant due to their decision to go independent.
With the shifting political dynamics, the race for leadership roles is heating up.
Afenyo-Markin’s readiness to serve on the Minority bench reflects his commitment to playing an active role in Ghana’s Parliament, regardless of which side he sits on.
His willingness to engage with the opposition shows a level of political maturity that is expected to be tested in the new Parliament.