Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Minority Leader in Parliament has dismissed claims that he has been under undue attack in his leadership role, arguing that criticism is simply part of the political game.

In an interview on Joy News’ The Probe on Sunday, February 2, the Effutu MP confidently stated that he never felt targeted and believes the scrutiny he faces is a sign of his effectiveness.

“I will never feel targeted. It is part of the game. I’m an opposition leader. You only get criticised when they see you being effective,” he stated.

For Mr Afenyo-Markin, being in opposition means enduring public and political scrutiny, and he sees it as an indication that he and his team are making an impact.

He pointed out that his predecessors in the role, including influential figures such as J.H. Mensah, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, Alban Bagbin, and Haruna Iddrisu, all faced harsh criticism during their time as Minority Leaders.

“The NDC is out on the rules because they see some effectiveness. They see a formidable opposition. We have a strong team. We make mistakes,” he admitted, emphasising that no leadership is perfect but that his team remains steadfast.

Referencing historical political confrontations, he noted how previous Minority Leaders endured even more intense political attacks.

“Look, J.H. Mensah was attacked. Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu came under attack. Alban Bagbin, as Minority Leader, came under attack. I won’t be the first. Haruna Iddrisu, they called him all manner of names. I’ve watched their videos. I’m a student of politics,” he explained.

Mr Afenyo-Markin took particular note of Alban Bagbin’s tenure, highlighting the current Speaker’s aggressive approach to opposition in the past.

“Bagbin did worse. Mr. Speaker, who is a top diplomat today, he did worse. Go and watch the videos, during the eight years, how he tormented John Kufuor. If I do a quarter of what Bagbin did to Kufuor to Mahama, I’m sure they won’t survive.”

Despite the pressure and opposition he faces, Mr Afenyo-Markin remains unfazed, asserting that his focus is on executing his role efficiently rather than engaging in unnecessary political theatrics.

“I’ve not criticised them so far—not that I’ve not started, I’ve just not criticised them,” he stated, leaving room for the possibility of more political manoeuvring in the future.

The Effutu MP said as Minority Leader he is fully aware of the political landscape and understands the weight of his role.

Mr Afenyo-Markin is clear about one thing; whether his critics perceive him as a threat or a stumbling block, he said his leadership is driven by efficiency, and he refuses to be distracted by criticisms.