The Minority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin, has urged Ghanaian youth to be bold in rejecting corruption and resisting division, stressing that their choices today will shape the nation’s future.
Speaking at the University of Education, Winneba (UEW) last Friday during the second leg of the launch of the Young Commons Forum (YCF), he reminded students that integrity and accountability must guide their actions in every sphere of life.
“I urge you to reject corruption and resist division whenever you encounter them. When you choose unity over division, you strengthen the social fabric that holds our nation together.
“When you speak out against nepotism and injustice, you send a clear message that your generation will not tolerate practices that hold Ghana back,” he told the gathering.
Mr. Afenyo-Markin further advised young leaders to model transparency and responsibility in their daily lives.
“If you’re a student leader, be transparent with your colleagues. If you’re a volunteer in your community project, honour your commitment. If you take up national service, give it your best. If you run a small business, deal honestly with your customers.”
He emphasised that youth empowerment should extend beyond classrooms.
“Youth empowerment cannot stop at the lecture hall; it must be backed by deliberate action that opens doors and removes barriers.
“This means investing in research and development, ensuring access to capital for young entrepreneurs, and celebrating innovation rather than stifling it.”
Touching on politics, he condemned the “you do me, I do you” cycle of political persecution, which he argued only undermines national development.
“Sometimes we think by bringing down our opponents it will make us popular. It rather pushes the country back.”
Mr. Afenyo-Markin also cautioned against abusing opportunities made available for youth initiatives.
“Don’t abuse support for your entrepreneurial goals, because by doing so you deny the next generation an opportunity.”
