Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has explained that his outspoken and combative approach in Parliament is not just a personal trait but a strategic necessity.
According to him, his role requires him to be vocal and assertive in defending his party’s interests, especially against a strong opposition.
Speaking on The KSM Show, the Effutu legislator said his parliamentary journey has shaped his style of engagement, making it necessary for him to take on an aggressive stance in debates.
“I started as a backbencher, but leadership moved me to the middle bench because they needed people who could take on the opposition,” he said. “Even when we came into government, I had to keep pushing back because if you don’t counter the opposition, you’ll always be on the defensive.”
Afenyo-Markin noted that parliamentary debates are often intense, especially with experienced opposition members actively setting political narratives. “The NDC has a strong parliamentary team, and they are relentless. If you go in with a gentlemanly approach all the time, you’ll struggle to make an impact,” he stated.
Reflecting on his leadership journey, he revealed that former Majority Leader Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu often prepared him for major debates. “He would brief me and say, ‘This is your fight,’ and I had to step up,” he recalled.
His approach, he admitted, has attracted criticism, with some people describing him as overly boisterous. However, he insists that his style is necessary. “People see me as loud and aggressive, but that’s because of the role I play. In Parliament, if you don’t stand your ground, the other side will dominate the discussion.”
He highlighted how the near-equal distribution of seats in Parliament has made debates even more challenging. “With a 137-137 split, it was a constant battle. Their strong members were on the floor every day, setting the agenda, and I had to match them,” he said.
Afenyo-Markin stressed that his parliamentary demeanor is intentional and driven by the demands of his position. “It’s not about making noise; it’s about ensuring that our party’s message is heard and that government policies are properly defended,” he concluded.
