Joseph Osei Owusu, the First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, has publicly endorsed Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Member of Parliament for Effutu, as the Minority Leader in the 9th Parliament.
Osei Owusu’s Support for Afenyo-Markin
Speaking on the matter, Osei Owusu, the MP for Bekwai, stressed that Afenyo-Markin’s extensive understanding of parliamentary procedures and his experience would be essential in leading the Minority. He emphasized that Afenyo-Markin’s track record and knowledge of the House’s leadership dynamics make him the ideal choice to effectively navigate the challenges of a Parliament where the National Democratic Congress (NDC) will hold an overwhelming majority.
Osei Owusu further pointed to the example of Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, who transitioned from Chief Whip to Majority Leader, highlighting how experience and longevity in Parliament contribute to effective leadership.
“I strongly believe in longevity and experience from our own actions and inactions. You can tell that when Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu was the Minority Leader and Majority Leader, he stood out very clearly. But it did not happen by accident. He started as a Chief Whip and grew up to become a leader. The longevity brings experience and clarity,” Osei Owusu remarked.
Afenyo-Markin’s Continued Leadership
Osei Owusu made it clear that he supports the continuation of Afenyo-Markin’s leadership role and disagrees with any proposals to introduce a new person for the Minority Leader position at this time.
NPP’s New Role in 9th Parliament
The NPP will occupy the Minority side of the House when the 9th Parliament is inaugurated on January 6, 2025, following their loss of the Majority in the December 7 elections.
