Afenyo-Markin: Youth Empowerment Must Be Based on Merit, Not Politics

Kwahu, April 19, 2025 — Minority Leader and Member of Parliament for Effutu, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has called for an end to the politicisation of youth opportunities in Ghana, urging leaders to champion meritocracy over partisanship in national development.

Speaking at the Kwahu Business Forum, Afenyo-Markin highlighted how deeply rooted political favoritism undermines creativity, innovation, and fair access to resources, especially among young people.

“We must take a hard look at how we extend opportunity, particularly to the youth. They must not be supported only when they wear party colours; they must be supported when they demonstrate potential, creativity, and drive,” he said.

🎯 Building a Future on Fairness

The Effutu MP stressed that Ghana’s progress depends on providing equal opportunity to all capable citizens, regardless of their political allegiance.

“Ghana’s future cannot be built on partisan loyalty; it must be built on merit. Those who deserve opportunity must be given the opportunity regardless of political affiliation,” he asserted.

“That is how we build a nation. That is how we create competition. And that is how we create progress.”

💼 A Platform for Bold Ideas

The Kwahu Business Forum continues to serve as a critical space for entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers to engage on strategies for economic transformation, youth empowerment, and private sector-led growth in Ghana and beyond.

Afenyo-Markin’s comments come at a time when many Ghanaians are calling for reforms in public sector recruitment, youth entrepreneurship funding, and national service placements, areas often alleged to be influenced by political connections.