Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has assured newly appointed Majority Leader James Agalga of his support in Parliament, while making it clear that his broader political goal is to transform the Minority Caucus into the Majority.
Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Thursday, August 27, following Agalga’s formal assumption of office, Afenyo-Markin said he would not seek to obstruct the new Majority Leader but would instead provide alternative perspectives on government business.
“I am saying that you can find in me a friend. My job is not to obstruct you. My job is to offer a different lens to things you may not see,” he said.
The Minority Leader also pledged to approach parliamentary debates with extensive research, emphasising his responsibility to scrutinise government decisions and present alternative positions.
“I can promise you a well-researched dossier for all my debates. That I can promise you,” he added.
Despite the conciliatory tone, Afenyo-Markin stressed that his support for Agalga would not compromise the political objectives of the Minority Caucus.
He said his primary responsibility was to strengthen the Minority and ultimately secure a majority in Parliament.
“My job really, my job really is to turn this Minority into Majority. That really is my job,” he stressed.
He subsequently cautioned Agalga against any attempt to weaken or infiltrate the Minority Caucus as he begins his tenure as Majority Leader.
James Agalga officially assumed the position following a communication from the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin announcing changes to the leadership of the NDC Parliamentary Caucus.
The changes followed the nomination of former Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga as Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs.
