Majority leader in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has disclosed that his predecessor, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu had previously declared him as his successor.
He shared insights into the guidance he received from the Suame MP and emphasized the importance of his teachings in preparing him for the role of a Majority Leader.
“My boss, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu will tell you how loyal and humble I have been to his leadership and teachings. Recently, when the President came to the House, I went to him and asked what to do after the President finished his State of the Nation address.”
“I don’t address him as honourable; I call him sir because the man is 67 and I’m 45. He is old enough to be my dad.”
“He previously took my hand and said, ‘One day you will be my successor,” he disclosed
Afenyo-Markin further elaborated on his respect for Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, attributing his success to the mentorship and support he received.
Addressing speculations surrounding his elevation on Newday on TV3, Afenyo-Markin refuted claims of instigating the former majority leader’s removal.
He stressed the collective nature of decision-making within the New Patriotic Party (NPP), indicating that no single individual could influence such outcomes independently.
“It doesn’t take an individual to instigate a thing in such a big party. So maybe they don’t know how the inner workings of the party operate,” he clarified.
In response to claims about potential divisions within the majority caucus, Afenyo-Markin dismissed the notion of discord, instead portraying the situation as an expression of democratic principles.
He stressed the value of open dialogue and regular updates within the NPP, asserting that such interactions are crucial for effective leadership.
Reflecting on his journey in politics, Afenyo-Markin acknowledged the challenges and sacrifices he faced, emphasizing the importance of patience and faith.
According to him, he came to Parliament when the NPP was in opposition and worked tirelessly for the party until it won the 2016 election and became the party in Majority.
He stated that despite not receiving a ministerial appointment or committee leadership role initially, he remained dedicated to his work and colleagues.
“I believe that a man must wait for his turn, and if it is not your turn, you can only pray and invoke the virtue of patience from above,” he stated, emphasizing his reliance on faith throughout his political career.