Builsa North Member of Parliament James Agalga has been named the new Majority Leader of Ghana’s Parliament, following Mahama Ayariga’s appointment as Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs-designate.
The change follows President John Dramani Mahama’s ministerial reshuffle announced on Friday, August 7, 2026.
Agalga will also serve as Leader of Government Business in Parliament, succeeding Ayariga in both roles.
His appointment places the Builsa North MP at the center of the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC)’s business in Parliament.
As Majority Leader, Agalga will help coordinate the government’s legislative agenda and work with the Majority Caucus on parliamentary business.
He will also play a key role in coordinating government legislation with the work of Parliament.
Agalga brings considerable parliamentary and government experience to the position.
He has represented Builsa North in Parliament and previously served as Deputy Minister for the Interior.
His appointment follows Ayariga’s move from Parliament into the Executive.
President Mahama nominated Ayariga as Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs-designate as part of the latest reshuffle.
Ayariga had served as Majority Leader and Leader of Government Business before the change.
The reshuffle therefore creates a new leadership arrangement for the NDC Majority in Parliament.
Agalga’s appointment comes as the government prepares to advance its legislative program during the current parliamentary session.
The new Majority Leader will have to work with the Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, and other parliamentary leaders to manage debates and legislative business.
His appointment has also attracted political reactions.
Former Defence Minister Dominic Nitiwul described Agalga as a tough politician but questioned whether he has enough leadership experience for the role.
Agalga, however, has indicated that he will not allow himself to be intimidated in the new position.
Speaking after his appointment, he said he could not be bullied as Majority Leader.
The leadership change marks another adjustment within Ghana’s Parliament as President Mahama reshapes his government team.
Agalga will now lead the Majority side as Parliament continues work on legislation and government business.
