By Bright Philip Donkor
The First Deputy Speaker of Parliament and Member of Parliament for Bekwai, Joseph Osei-Owusu, popularly known as Joe Wise, has urged the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to retain Alexander Afenyo-Markin as the Minority Leader in the 9th Parliament.
Speaking to journalists in Parliament on the contentious 9th Parliament leadership arrangement, Joe Wise emphasised the significance of longevity and experience in effective leadership.
Reflecting on the contributions of Afenyo-Markin, the outgoing Majority Leader, Joe Wise underscored his rise through the party’s parliamentary ranks, noting that he started as a Chief Whip and gradually rose to his current leadership position.
This steady growth, he stated, has equipped Afenyo-Markin with the experience and capacity needed to lead in the challenging position of Minority Leader.
“Afenyo-Markin has served diligently, starting as a Chief Whip and growing into a seasoned leader. Longevity brings not just experience but also clarity and foresight. I believe changing him now will disrupt the momentum we have built,” he indicated .
No new face
He dismissed calls for introducing a new face into the Minority Leader position, arguing that such a decision could hamper the party’s efforts to project its voice effectively in Parliament. Joe Wise stressed that experience was an indispensable asset, particularly as the NPP transitions from Majority to Minority status in the next Parliament.
“The only other person in our party who had such leadership experience is Hon. Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, but he is leaving Parliament. At this critical juncture, Afenyo-Markin stands as the most capable individual to champion our interests as Minority Leader,” Joe Wise stated.
Acknowledging the NPP’s diminished legislative strength as the Minority in the upcoming Parliament, the Deputy Speaker maintained that the party can no longer influence decisions as effectively as it did when in the Majority.
“Based on our numbers, there’s no decision we can influence in Parliament, but we need somebody who can at least lead our voice,” he added.
Amplifying party’s position
However, he emphasised the importance of making the party’s positions and concerns resonate “loud and clear” both within and outside the Parliamentary Chamber.
He drew attention to past leadership performances during key moments in the current Parliament, pointing to the successes chalked up when the NPP’s leadership team demonstrated cohesion and focus. He attributed much of this to the experience that longstanding leaders brought to the table.
“When you look at our own actions and inactions, it is clear how impactful leadership continuity can be. The distinct stance of the NPP during our time as Majority did not happen by chance. It was the result of deliberate and experienced leadership, as demonstrated by Afenyo-Markin and others,” he noted.
About The Author
