In Ghana’s turbulent political landscape, few members of Parliament have demonstrated the same level of dedication, resourcefulness, and foresight as Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Member of Parliament (MP) for Effutu and the current Minority Leader in Parliament.
Since entering Parliament in 2013, the dynamic New Patriotic Party (NPP) stalwart has consistently proven himself an invaluable asset to his constituency, his party, and the nation at large.
Afenyo-Markin’s tenure has been marked by remarkable legal victories, transformative development projects, and a resilient leadership style, all of which have earned him widespread recognition across the political spectrum.
A subtle attempt by the Ashanti Regional New Patriotic Party (NPP) investigative report headed by former Majority leader Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu Committee to lay the blame of the loss of the party in the 2024 general election partly on the Effutu legislator is therefore very unfortunate.
It is most indefensible for the Committee report to unfairly attack and discredit Afenyo-Markin while absolving others who were demonstrably responsible for the party’s poor performance.
Since entering Parliament in 2013, Afenyo-Markin has consistently proven himself to be one of the most dynamic, resourceful, and forward-thinking leaders in the NPP.
One of the most defining moments of Afenyo-Markin’s career came in 2024 when he spearheaded a successful legal challenge to a controversial ruling by Speaker Alban Bagbin. The ruling, which would have handed the NDC a parliamentary majority under an NPP government, threatened to plunge the country into a constitutional crisis.
In an unprecedented Supreme Court ruling, Afenyo-Markin’s legal expertise and political acumen preserved the NPP’s parliamentary majority. This victory was critical in maintaining the stability of Ghana’s democratic framework.
Afenyo-Markin’s role in this historic case earned him praise from colleagues, with political observers noting his legal prowess as a key factor in the NPP’s ability to retain control of Parliament.
While Afenyo-Markin’s legal victories have garnered attention, his impact on his Effutu constituency is equally profound. Unlike many other MPs who fall short of delivering tangible results, Afenyo-Markin has dedicated himself to a comprehensive developmental agenda that has brought lasting change to the region.
Key projects initiated by Afenyo-Markin include the construction of modern police stations to improve security, state-of-the-art school facilities and ICT training centres to empower the youth, and a much-anticipated children’s hospital.
Furthermore, the ongoing construction of a tissue paper production factory in Effutu promises to provide jobs for local youth, while the rehabilitation of major roads and community centres is already improving the daily lives of residents.
Effutu residents have expressed overwhelming support for Afenyo-Markin’s initiatives, with many praising the MP for being hands-on in addressing their concerns.
Indeed, in the aftermath of the NPP’s disappointing performance in the 2024 elections, Afenyo-Markin has emerged as a beacon of hope for the party. Despite the setbacks, including a loss in the presidential race and challenges within the party, the Effutu MP has stepped up as an inspiring Minority Leader.
His leadership has breathed new life into the NPP, providing direction and reinvigorating the party’s strategic vision.
Afenyo-Markin’s ability to unite the party in the face of internal divisions has been widely acknowledged, with many political analysts hailing him as a potential future leader of the NPP.
Despite Afenyo-Markin’s undeniable contributions to both the NPP and Ghana, it is surprising that the Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu Committee chose to unfairly target him.
The 2024 election results, which saw the NPP falter in the Central Region, were influenced by several factors including the broader economic challenges Ghana faced, internal party conflicts, and the fatigue of voters.
Afenyo-Markin himself played a pivotal role in mobilizing resources and strengthening the party’s campaign efforts across the country, ensuring that the NPP secured 41 per cent of the presidential vote despite the odds.
As the NPP faces the challenging road ahead, Afenyo-Markin is one leader who remains steadfast in his commitment to both the NPP and his constituency.
With his legal expertise, track record of development, and unwavering political resilience, the Effutu MP stands as a shining example of leadership in a time of adversity.
As the NPP rebuilds and refines its approach, Afenyo-Markin’s legacy of transformative leadership and commitment to service will undoubtedly play a key role in shaping the party’s future success.
