Minority Leader and Member of Parliament for Effutu, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, says he will remain neutral in the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential primary, stressing that his position requires him to act as a unifying figure rather than openly campaign for any candidate.
Speaking on Joy News on Monday, October 27, Afenyo-Markin said that while many of his colleagues have declared support for various aspirants, he believes his leadership role within the party demands restraint and impartiality.
“For me as a leader, I cannot publicly say I am going to campaign for this person,” he stated. “I don’t have to, because of where I sit… I cannot publicly—but privately, can you stay there? I cannot publicly. I have a role to play in the aftermath of January 31st.”
He explained that revealing his preference could compromise his credibility in helping to unify the party after the internal contest.
“If I would have to play that role, show my hand openly, it would be difficult to be trusted when I am doing that midnight walking. So I think it’s appropriate to stay that way,” he said.
The Effutu MP, however, commended Members of Parliament who have openly declared their support for one candidate or another, describing their conduct as decent and responsible.
“I think so far, the MPs who have declared in one way or the other have been decent. Initially, my concern was how those who will declare openly will manage themselves,” he said.
He reiterated his earlier call for neutrality among MPs to maintain harmony within the party, noting that internal contests should not create divisions.
“You remember that I came to say let’s be very neutral… To make yourself a credible referee who would be trusted by various factions, it is better for you to stay neutral—at least not openly declare,” he explained.
Afenyo-Markin added that while some colleagues disagreed with his stance, he respects their decision to express support as long as they do so respectfully.
The Minority Leader’s comments come as the NPP gears up for its presidential primary, which is expected to be a decisive moment in shaping the party’s future leadership and strategy ahead of the next general election.
