Outgoing Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, soon to take up the mantle as Minority Leader in Ghana’s Parliament, delivered a charged and reflective farewell speech during the dissolution of the 8th Parliament.
The session, broadcast live and monitored by MyNewsGH, captured a moment brimming with political drama and revelations.
Afenyo-Markin’s speech acknowledged influential figures from both the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP), whose support and mentorship shaped his political career.
However, the address took a contentious turn as he highlighted the significant contributions of Speaker Alban Bagbin, a move that drew sharp reactions from the NDC benches.
“Mr. Speaker has done a lot for the NDC,” Afenyo-Markin declared. “Even when many within his own party plotted against him, he stood firm and delivered for them.”
This statement sparked murmurs among NDC MPs, some of whom expressed frustration over the perceived diversion from the agenda of the day. Undeterred, Afenyo-Markin responded sharply.
“Let me finish my speech. If you continue interrupting, I’ll be forced to reveal the names of those who conspired to unseat Speaker Bagbin,” he warned, his tone a mix of resolve and defiance.
The tension in the chamber underscored lingering divisions within the NDC regarding Bagbin’s leadership.
Despite his affiliation with the party, Bagbin has faced criticism from factions within the NDC over his handling of key parliamentary issues, with some members allegedly advocating for his replacement.
Afenyo-Markin’s acknowledgement of Bagbin’s efforts served as a rare moment of bipartisan respect, albeit one cloaked in controversy. “Leadership requires courage, and Mr. Speaker has demonstrated that in abundance,” he added.
