Days into his tenure as the Minority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin has opened up about the challenges of his new role, emphasising that he relies on prayer to navigate the pressures of leadership.

Speaking on Joy News’ The Probe on Sunday, February 2, the Effutu MP acknowledged the weight of his new responsibilities, describing the position as difficult and requiring wisdom, patience, and broad consultations.

“It’s been challenging. NPP is a party of equals. You need to really consult broadly. You cannot be taking unilateral decisions,” he stated.

Despite these challenges, Mr Afenyo-Markin expressed confidence that he would succeed, attributing his resilience to his unwavering faith and reliance on God.

“So God be my guide. I keep praying. I have a prayer team. Father has been very supportive. I have an Anglican priest in Winneba. I believe in prayer.”

He also shared a personal revelation about his spiritual journey, responding to a recent comment by Samuel George, the Communications Minister nominee, regarding Holy Spirit baptism.

“When Sam George was talking about Holy Spirit baptism, I received Holy Spirit baptism way back in Saint Augustine’s College. He doesn’t know. We’ve not had the opportunity to talk about religion. But when people talk, just leave them. The time will come.”

For Mr Afenyo-Markin, leadership is a journey of continuous learning and growth. He admitted that he is not perfect and expects to make mistakes along the way.

“I will make mistakes. There are potholes on the way. There are asphalt roads on the way. We’ll get to each one of them. As we grow, we learn from our mistakes. I’m not a perfect guy.”

Reflecting on his evolution as a politician, he acknowledged his personal and professional growth over the years.

“I know Afenyo-Markin of 2013 is not the same Afenyo-Markin of today. If God gives me life, my Afenyo-Markin in the next eight years will not be the same as the Afenyo-Markin of today.”

He admitted that criticism is an inevitable part of leadership, but he sees it as an opportunity for self-reflection and improvement.

“People criticise you, and you go back. Sometimes, you may not admit it publicly, but you realise, ‘Oh no, I erred.’ You correct it and move on. That is life. What else can I do?”

Mr Afenyo-Markin’s words paint a picture of a leader who is both self-aware and deeply rooted in his faith.

As he takes on the challenge of leading the Minority in Parliament, he remains steadfast in his belief that with God on his side, he will rise to the occasion and make a meaningful impact.