Minority Leader and Member of Parliament for Effutu, Honourable Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin, has pledged his support to Honourable James Agalga as he assumes responsibility for leading the Majority side of Parliament.
Offering the assurance during proceedings in Parliament as Honourable Agalga formally took over the leadership position, Honourable Afenyo-Markin urged him to approach the demanding role with patience, humility and a willingness to seek counsel.
“So James, you can’t rely on your strength. You can’t make it on your own, but you can find in me a good friend.”
Honourable Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin
The Minority Leader drew from his own experience in parliamentary leadership to caution the new Majority Leader against relying solely on personal strength, stressing that the position could become isolating when difficult decisions have to be made. He encouraged Honourable Agalga to build relationships across the House and remain accessible to members, particularly backbenchers who may require support in navigating the demands of parliamentary work.
Furthermore, Honourable Afenyo-Markin urged the new leader to listen carefully to those around him and recognise that compromise forms an essential part of effective parliamentary leadership. He referenced advice he has received from experienced parliamentarians, including the principle that, “compromise should never be mistaken for weakness.”
The Effutu MP also encouraged Honourable Agalga to draw on the experience of former parliamentary leaders during challenging periods, noting that he had personally sought guidance from senior figures who had occupied leadership positions before him.
In explaining his role, the Minority Leader said it involves offering an alternative perspective to the Majority Leader, especially on issues where another viewpoint could improve parliamentary deliberations. He assured Honourable Agalga that his opposition would be guided by the responsibilities of his office and would not amount to a personal campaign against the new Majority Leader.
The Minority Leader added that the position requires resilience, describing the leadership seat as demanding and sometimes lonely because of the competing expectations placed on its occupant. He therefore advised Honourable Agalga to maintain close contact with members of his side and make time to understand their challenges, particularly those who may struggle to gain access to ministers and other senior officials.
“So James, welcome to the hot seat. Congratulations on behalf of the minority. I say congratulations again. You have our support, and may God, whom you rely upon in times of difficulty and danger, aid you.”
Honourable Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin
Consequently, Honourable Afenyo-Markin noted that effective leadership would require the Majority Leader to carry his backbenchers along, listen to their concerns and help them navigate difficulties within government. The Effutu MP then assured his colleague that the transition could be marked by mutual respect despite their political differences, offering his congratulations on behalf of the Minority.
Minority Leader Honours Former Majority Leader
Minority Leader and Member of Parliament for Effutu, Honourable Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin also acknowledged outgoing Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga as he leaves parliamentary leadership to take up a new role in government.
Afenyo-Markin described his relationship with Honourable Ayariga as one built on frankness, friendship and mutual understanding despite the political disagreements that came with their respective positions in Parliament.
Recalling their years of working together, the Minority Leader praised the Bawku Central MP for being direct about his views and willing to communicate his feelings openly, qualities he suggested had strengthened their working relationship. He also acknowledged that political disagreements occurred between them, yet expressed satisfaction that Honourable Ayariga was leaving the leadership position with his reputation intact.
“I respect him for his own forthrightness, and a man who does not hide his feelings. Hardly would you get people like that.”
Honourable Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin
Honourable Afenyo-Markin said he would miss the personal friendship and direct relationship developed with Honourable Ayariga during their time in Parliament, while recognising that his move into the Ministry offers another avenue through which he could serve the country.
Honourable Mahama Ayariga is set to take charge of the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs after Parliament approved his ministerial nomination on Thursday, August 27, 2026.
Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, Member of Parliament for Klottey-Korle, has also been approved as Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, while Honourable James Agalga assumes the position of Majority Leader in Parliament following Honourable Ayariga’s move into government.
Ayariga’s move from Majority Leader has also paved the way for Honourable James Agalga, MP for Builsa North, to take over as Majority Leader.
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