The Minority Leader and MP for Effutu, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has cautioned the newly appointed Majority Leader, Mahama Ayariga, against introducing excessive debate on the floor of Parliament, warning that it could hinder government business.

Speaking during a session on the change of the majority leadership, Mr Afenyo-Markin congratulated Mr Ayariga and his team, acknowledging his skills as a negotiator and a debater. However, he urged him to strike a balance between tough debate and ensuring the smooth running of government affairs in the House.

“Mahama Ayariga is a great debater, he loves his procedure. I know that you enjoy the rules, and you will not allow things to go unattended. But let me quickly remind you that as a government leader, if you try to introduce more debate, government business will suffer. Too many debates will spoil the government business,” he said.

Mr Afenyo-Markin further expressed admiration for Mr Ayariga’s negotiation skills, recounting their time together in the ECOWAS Parliament.

“We served together in the ECOWAS Parliament, you were very supportive and earned the respect of your colleagues in the sub-region. You don’t mind how long it takes to negotiate to bring peace, and that I’ve learnt with a great deal of respect,” he added.

He appealed to the incoming majority leadership to prioritise consensus-building and cooperation, stressing that most decisions in Parliament are resolved through consensus.

“Indeed, many people in this country do not know that over 90% of the issues on this floor are resolved through consensus. Just a few that get into the media is what takes centre stage. I pray that we build consensus during your tenure,” he said.

Mr Afenyo-Markin also assured the new majority leadership of the Minority’s respect and willingness to collaborate, emphasising the need to focus on strengthening the democratic system and addressing policies that benefit the nation.

“We will work together, beautify democracy, and assure the nation that although it’s NDC and NPP, it’s about systems and policy,” he concluded.