The Minority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin, has disclosed that he was confronted by the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, following calls by the Minority Caucus for the minister’s resignation over a controversial lithium agreement.
In an interview on Channel One TV’s Point of View programme on Monday, February 16, 2026, Afenyo-Markin recounted the incident, emphasizing that the demand for Buah’s dismissal was not personal but stemmed from a policy failure.
According to Afenyo-Markin, the confrontation occurred around Christmas when Buah approached him, asking in Fante, “Maye wo dzen” (what have I done to you?).
According to the Minority Leader, he clarified that the issue was about the government’s handling of the lithium deal, which was defended by Buah despite warnings from the opposition.
“You came to defend the lithium agreement, and Honorable Abu Jinapor was drawing the attention of government to certain loopholes in the new agreement. Yeah, you didn’t listen to us. It was only when the CSOs, led by IMANI, escalated the matter, and the presidency, then the President directed you to come and withdraw, and you redrew the agreement,” Afenyo-Markin explained during the interview.
He stressed that if a government introduces and defends an agreement in Parliament only to later withdraw it due to flaws, there must be accountability.
“How do you expect us as a caucus to be quiet? So your point is that it’s not personal. It’s because he failed. It was a policy failure,” he added.
Afenyo-Markin, reflecting on his first year as Minority Leader, described the role as challenging and lonely, noting initial turbulence in forming committees and building consensus within his ranks. However, he said the caucus has settled and focused on scrutinizing government policies without being obstructive.
“When you are in opposition, you must always have in mind that you have a day in Government tomorrow. So I’m equally mindful not to push too much and personalize matters, else if you come back in 2029 they also make life difficult for you,” he said.
The Minority Leader urged his colleagues in government to perform their duties diligently while he carries out his oversight role.
“I always tell my colleagues in government that, look, do your work well, let me do mine. Let’s keep good relationship, but the work must be done,” he stated.
He drew a distinction between personal friendships and professional responsibilities, noting that ideological differences must be respected on the floor of the House.
The lithium agreement in question involved a mining lease with Barari DV Ghana Limited, which faced widespread criticism from civil society organizations and opposition members for alleged loopholes that could shortchange the country. Following public outcry, the government withdrew the deal for further consultations.
