Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has shared his experience of being targeted for attempting reforms at the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWL) during his tenure as Board Chair.
He revealed that his efforts to implement necessary changes in the sector were met with relentless opposition.
Speaking during the vetting of the Deputy Energy Minister-Designate, Afenyo-Markin used his personal struggle as a cautionary example. He highlighted how entrenched political and bureaucratic resistance often undermines genuine reform efforts in key state institutions.
“I tried to reform Ghana Water, but instead, I became the victim. It saddens me as a politician because we fail to support each other in pushing for real reforms,” he lamented.
Afenyo-Markin pointed out the recurring issue where bold reformers face opposition from vested interests, resulting in stagnation and inefficiencies that continue to plague successive governments.
His remarks come amid ongoing discussions about the potential privatization of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), a proposal that has faced significant opposition. Reflecting on his own experience, he advised the Deputy Energy Minister-Designate, Gyan-Mensah, to be prepared for similar resistance. He urged him to stay resolute in his efforts for reform.
“If you’re not assertive, you’ll spend your time there only to return and find the same political football being played. The system will fight you, but you must be bold and push for real reforms,” Afenyo-Markin emphasized.
