I shall be spirited in providing the leadership that is most desirous — James Aglaga assures

The Member of Parliament for Builsa North, James Agalga, has officially assumed the position of Majority Leader, pledging to promote greater consensus and cooperation between the Majority and Minority Caucuses.

Mr Agalga assured Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin and members of the Minority bench that he would prioritise consultation and compromise in his leadership of the House.

He said such an approach would help strengthen unity in Parliament and enable the House to effectively discharge its constitutional mandate as the legislative arm of government.

“And if I can make compromises as and when necessary, I assure you I will give it to you, and I will reach out and consult, but at the same time I will work to ensure that the reset agenda of our President is accomplished for the betterment of all of us,” he said.

Agalga promises spirited leadership
In his acceptance speech as the new Leader of Government Business on Thursday, Mr Agalga said he was prepared to learn with humility while drawing on the experience and expertise of colleagues on both sides of the House.

“But in doing so, I shall be spirited in providing the leadership that is most desirous in ensuring that government business thrives in this House,” he said.

Mr Agalga took over from Mahama Ayariga after the former Majority Leader formally communicated to the Speaker and the House the leadership changes effected by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) following his nomination as Minister-designate for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs.

The transition was marked by a warm embrace between the two leaders, followed by cheers from lawmakers as they exchanged seats.

New Majority Leader acknowledges learning curve

Mr Agalga expressed gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama, the NDC leadership, the Majority Caucus and the Minority bench for entrusting him with the responsibility of leading the Majority.

“I accept this responsibility with utmost humility,” he said, describing the new assignment as a learning curve.

He said he would rely on the wisdom and experience of Speaker Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin in navigating the responsibilities of his new position.

“Just like Honourable Mahama Ayariga stated, we are blessed to have in our presence Right Honourable Speaker Bagbin, who has seen it all.

“Mr Speaker, you have served as the Minority Leader and the Majority Leader before and, by the grace of God, you are now the Speaker of the Parliament of Ghana. I shall continue to tap from your vast experience and wisdom in leading this august House,” he said.

Mr Agalga also acknowledged the support offered by his predecessor, saying he would continue to depend on Mr Ayariga's guidance despite his new ministerial responsibilities.

He further assured the Parliamentary Service, the Clerk to Parliament, Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, and his team of his cooperation as he assumes responsibility for leading government business in the House.

“Again, I will rely heavily on them for support in terms of research and matters that border on the administration of the House in general,” he said.

Agalga commends Speaker for fostering unity

The new Majority Leader also praised Speaker Bagbin for his guidance and the role he had played in maintaining cohesion between the two sides of Parliament.

“We shall continue to rely on you for support in very difficult moments, as your wisdom and experience are what have kept this House together.

“That kind of cohesion you have managed to foster in this House is very commendable, and I will learn under your feet to ensure we continue to foster unity in the delivery of the mandate of this House as the legislative arm of government,” he said.

Media assured of partnership
Mr Agalga also extended his appreciation to members of the Parliamentary Press Corps for their work in covering proceedings of the House.

He assured the media that he would regard journalists as important partners during his tenure as Majority Leader.

“I assure you that you will become worthy partners as I assume the mantle of leadership in this House. You can count on me, and I will also count on your support to succeed,” he said.

Ayariga backs Agalga's leadership
Earlier, Mr Ayariga expressed confidence in his successor, describing Mr Agalga as capable of leading the Majority Caucus and contributing effectively to the work of Parliament.

“Having been here for a while and having chaired a number of committees, ranked on a number of committees, served as a deputy minister and, in the process, demonstrated competence and ability, I have no doubt that he will do well and excel as a leader,” he said.

He subsequently appealed to members of the House to give Mr Agalga the necessary support to enable him to succeed in his new role.