Parliament kicks Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, off Ghana’s delegation to ECOWAS Parliament

In a dramatic and unexpected development, Parliament has removed Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Minority Leader and Member of Parliament for Effutu, from Ghana’s delegation to the ECOWAS Parliament.

The decision has sparked political shockwaves and raised eyebrows across the country, as many question the motive behind the removal of such a high-profile figure from a key regional legislative body.

The announcement was made during a sitting of Parliament on Monday, with the Clerk of Parliament confirming that the Minority Leader’s name had been withdrawn from the list of Ghanaian representatives to the West African regional assembly. The move comes just months after Afenyo-Markin assumed leadership of the Minority Caucus, following a controversial reshuffle within the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) parliamentary front.

While no official explanation was given for the decision, sources within Parliament suggest that it stems from behind-the-scenes political maneuvering and growing tension between Afenyo-Markin and some influential members of the Majority Caucus. Some insiders also allege that his increasingly assertive stance on parliamentary procedure and his calls for greater scrutiny of certain government actions may have made him a target.

A source close to the leadership revealed, “This is more than just an administrative change — it’s a political message. Afenyo-Markin has been too vocal, too independent, and that doesn’t sit well with certain factions within the party.”

The removal has drawn swift reactions from both sides of the political divide. Supporters of Afenyo-Markin have condemned the move as petty and vindictive, while some political observers say it reflects deeper cracks within the NPP ahead of the 2028 general elections.

“This is a calculated attempt to sideline Afenyo-Markin and weaken his influence in regional diplomacy,” said Dr. Amanda Owusu-Kwarteng, a political analyst. “It shows the internal battle for dominance within the party is far from over.”

Meanwhile, Afenyo-Markin himself has remained silent on the matter, choosing not to comment publicly. However, his close associates hint that he is deeply disappointed but remains focused on his responsibilities as Minority Leader and MP for Effutu.

The ECOWAS Parliament plays a critical role in shaping regional policy, promoting peace, and advancing democracy across West Africa. Ghana’s decision to exclude such a seasoned and articulate legislator from its delegation raises serious questions about the balance between political loyalty and national interest.

As the dust settles, it remains to be seen whether this decision will impact Ghana’s voice in ECOWAS or trigger further internal friction within the governing party. What is certain, however, is that Alexander Afenyo-Markin’s political journey is far from over — and this latest episode may only sharpen his resolve.