Ricketts-Hagan takes over ECOWAS Parliament leadership from Afenyo-Markin

The Third Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has handed over leadership of Ghana’s delegation to the regional legislature to the Deputy Majority Leader of Parliament, Kwaku George Ricketts-Hagan. The transition took place on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, during the Second Extraordinary Session of the ECOWAS Parliament and the 2026 Parliamentary Seminar in Accra. Afenyo-Markin described Ricketts-Hagan, the Member of Parliament for Cape Coast South, as a ‘worthy successor’ and expressed confidence in his ability to lead the Ghanaian delegation effectively. “I have every confidence that he will bring to this responsibility his considerable experience, commitment to parliamentary diplomacy and understanding of the importance of regional integration,” he said. He said his experience in the ECOWAS Parliament had strengthened his belief that regional integration must remain connected to the needs and aspirations of the people of West Africa. Afenyo-Markin further urged members of Ghana’s delegation to remain committed to the work of the Community Parliament despite changes in leadership. Parliament votes to replace Afenyo-Markin at ECOWAS Parliament, deputy takes over He said the delegation had an important role to play in advancing regional integration, peace and prosperity. He also assured his colleagues that he would continue to support efforts to strengthen parliamentary cooperation within the region. Afenyo-Markin said the transition reflected the principle that parliamentary leadership should focus on service, continuity and institutional development. Ricketts-Hagan is expected to build on Ghana’s participation in the regional legislature while working with other members of the delegation to advance the country’s interests within the ECOWAS parliamentary framework. Afenyo-Markin joined Ghana’s delegation to the ECOWAS Parliament during the Second Ordinary Session held from November 18 to December 14, 2019. “You Sent My Office a Letter, So I’ll Come in My Car” – Lawyer Escapes EOCO Arrest Attempt *Source: GhanaWeb*