Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Minority Leader in Parliament, has emphasised the importance of balancing intense political debate with maintaining personal relationships among lawmakers. In an interview on Metro TV’s Good Morning Ghana on April 6, he acknowledged that while ideological disagreements are natural, they should not compromise the professional or personal bonds within Parliament. “Many of us are centrists.
We believe in strong debate, but we also believe that relationships must be preserved,” he stated. He cited his own interactions with Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga as an example, noting that despite the heated debates that occur in the chamber, lawmakers often return to cordial engagement shortly afterwards.
You will see us argue strongly on the floor, but soon after, we come together again. That is simply the nature of the work,” he explained. Afenyo-Markin urged politicians not to take issues personally, emphasising that most actions in Parliament are driven by party strategy or political conviction rather than personal intent. My duty is to respond politically, not emotionally, he stated. “That is how we find solutions.” He added that maintaining this balance is crucial for sustaining Ghana’s democratic culture
Source: Edward Acquah
