Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has revealed that his election to Parliament in 2012 was significantly influenced by the strategic direction and mentorship of Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh, the former Manhyia South MP.

Speaking at a public lecture at the DF Annan Auditorium on Thursday, February 26, the Effutu MP shared personal reflections on his early political journey, shedding light on the support system that helped secure his maiden parliamentary win.

The lecture, held under the theme “Centre Left, Centre Right, Formulating Policies that Serve a Growing Democracy,” provided a forum for discussions on ideological balance and policy development in Ghana’s evolving democratic space.

However, Afenyo-Markin used the occasion to acknowledge the pivotal role played by Dr Opoku Prempeh during his first parliamentary contest.

According to him, Dr Opoku Prempeh, who was then serving as the NPP’s Director of Elections, did more than offer routine campaign advice.

He said the former minister personally designed a campaign manual to guide him through the electoral process in the Effutu constituency.

“Back in 2012, as a young candidate in my constituency, it took the Director of Elections to train me and prepare me with his own manual on how to conduct my campaign and win elections. I followed the manual, and on the day itself, I relied on those tutorial notes, and I won,” Afenyo-Markin recounted.

He added, “When I came to Parliament, he held my hand and never gave up on me even in difficult times. I am honoured that Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh is here despite his tight schedule.”

The Minority Leader noted that beyond ideological debates and governance philosophy, political success is often shaped by mentorship, alliances and shared commitment to a broader vision.