Joyce Bawah Mogtari, Special Aide to the National Democratic Congress (NDC)’s flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, has called on the recently transitioned Minority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, to adopt a more humble approach in his political and public affairs.
Reacting to the events of October 17, 2024, when Afenyo-Markin was swiftly shifted from Majority Leader to Minority Leader, Bawah Mogtari posted on X, stressing the significance of humility in leadership and cautioning him against allowing pride to influence his political conduct.
“When God blesses you very early in life, be humble; know that there are many people around, some even more capable than you and even others far better than you who were probably not chosen. Each time God promotes you, take it in all humility and respect. You are a good guy, but too partisan, and the way you disrespected and disparaged Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang was very low, even for you! Take a few lessons from this experience, sir,” the former Deputy Minister of Transport wrote on her X page.
On Thursday, October 17, 2024, Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin, who transitioned from Majority Leader to Minority Leader in Parliament, surprised listeners and viewers during a live radio and TV interview by insisting that he be introduced by his previous title.
Until that day, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Members of Parliament had been the Majority Caucus in the 8th Parliament of Ghana, but within moments, they became the Minority side following a significant announcement. This dramatic shift occurred after Speaker Alban Bagbin declared four seats in the House vacant.
This decision stemmed from actions taken by the NDC MPs, who invoked Article 97 [1(g) & (h)] of the 1992 Constitution. This article stipulates that a member must vacate their seat if they change party allegiance or if an independent member joins a political party.
The transition was led by Haruna Iddrisu, following the nomination of Agona West and Suhum MPs, both NPP members, to contest the upcoming 2024 parliamentary elections as independent candidates. Additionally, the independent MP for Fomena has also filed to contest as an NPP candidate, while the Amenfi Central MP from the NDC is running as an independent.
In response to these developments, Afenyo-Markin announced that he had filed an injunction application with the Supreme Court regarding the Minority’s attempts to declare the seats of independent candidates vacant. During an interview on Joy FM and Joy News, he voiced his disappointment over not being addressed by his former title.
Here’s how the exchange unfolded during the live interview:
“… Let me hear how you introduce me again.”
The journalist responded, “Okay, so we have Alexander Afenyo-Markin, MP for Effutu, on the line.”
The MP, obviously not happy, responded: “You either do the right thing or I just go off.”
“Okay, so I have the Majority Leader on the line, Alexander Afenyo-Markin; is that okay?” the journalist asked.
The MP then retorted, “Young man, how do you do your journalism? You will introduce someone properly. You don’t make these things for me to remind you and all that. What do you gain from it? Is it okay for us to have a banter?”
The journalist responded, “No, no. I only said I have the Majority Leader…” the MP swiftly interjected, saying, “You started with I have Alexander Afenyo-Markin, then you said MP for Effutu, then I had to remind you. Please, let’s do the right thing. Is that okay? So, do the right thing and let’s proceed.” The journalist then said, “Okay, please forgive me. So, let me bring in Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin.”
A now satisfied Afenyo-Markin then responded, “Yes, sir, good evening to you; thanks for having me.”