Never get personal, respect colleagues – Afenyo-Markin to first-term MPs

Minority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin has urged fresh term legislators to accord colleagues in the House due respect as they begin their new political careers.

Mr. Afenyo-Markin, who leads the New Patriotic Party (NPP) caucus in Parliament said it was important for the new lawmakers to use language devoid of debasing another person.

He observed that success in legislature could be achieved if Members of Parliament were intentioned to promote effective political leadership.

“In all of these, in the interest of governance, never get personal with any matter,” he stressed at the orientation for first timers. “Respect colleagues, compliment colleagues. Use language that is acceptable to good governance and you will survive.”

Leader Afenyo-Markin advised the first-term MPs not to disregard the Parliamentary Service staff, telling him, “you underestimate them, you underrate them, you disrespect them at your own peril”.

He applauded the staff for the role they played in enabling him find his feet when he came to Parliament over a decade ago.

The NPP leader also complimented the orientation, noting that such events boosted MPs’ knowledge and experience in the business of the House.

The orientation, per parliamentary practice is part of a comprehensive program to initiate first time Members of Parliament into the legislature.

It is intended to help the new lawmakers understand their responsibilities as Members of Parliament and build working relationships among themselves and the staff.

The event was attended by Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, Deputy Speakers and leaders of both Majority and Minority caucuses.