Afenyo-Markin Chooses Neutral Path in NPP Presidential Race, Says His Role Demands Unity Over Loyalty

Minority Leader and Member of Parliament for Effutu, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has announced that he will remain neutral in the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) upcoming presidential primaries. He says his position as a leader calls for unity within the party, not open endorsement of any particular candidate.

Speaking on Joy News on Monday, October 27, Afenyo-Markin explained that while many of his colleagues have publicly declared support for various aspirants, his leadership role requires him to act with restraint and impartiality.

“For me as a leader, I cannot publicly say I am going to campaign for this person,” he stated. “Because of where I sit, I have a role to play in the aftermath of January 31st, so I believe it’s best to stay neutral.”

He noted that taking sides could make it difficult for him to effectively mediate and unite the party after the internal elections.

“If I show my hand openly now, it will be hard for others to trust my efforts when I try to bring everyone together later. So, I think it’s only right to stay this way,” he added.

Despite his neutral stance, the Effutu MP praised colleagues who have openly declared their support for various candidates, describing their approach as “decent and responsible.”

“I think so far, the MPs who have declared their positions have done so respectfully. Initially, my concern was how those who openly supported candidates would manage themselves, but they’ve been decent,” he said.

Afenyo-Markin also reiterated his earlier call for MPs to remain neutral to preserve harmony in the party, warning that internal contests should not breed division.

“To be a credible referee who is trusted by all sides, it’s better to remain neutral—at least not declare publicly,” he advised.

He acknowledged that not everyone agrees with his position, but emphasized that he respects the right of others to support their preferred candidates as long as it’s done with decorum.

His remarks come as the NPP prepares for a crucial presidential primary, a contest expected to shape the party’s leadership and direction ahead of the next general election.