Member of Parliament James Agalga for Builsa North has emerged as the frontrunner to take over as Majority Leader in Parliament following Mahama Ayariga’s appointment to President John Dramani Mahama’s cabinet, sources within the National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary caucus have revealed.

Mr Ayariga, who previously led the NDC side in the House, has been reassigned as Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs in President Mahama’s latest ministerial changes announced on Friday, August 7, 2026.

According to sources, the NDC caucus has settled on Mr Agalga ahead of South Dayi MP Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, who was also under consideration for the position. The decision, however, is yet to be officially communicated by the party’s parliamentary leadership.

Mr Agalga brings to the role experience from both Parliament and the executive branch, having served as Deputy Minister for Interior during President Mahama’s previous administration.

The lawmaker, who holds a Master’s degree in Conflict, Peace and Security from the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre, currently serves as Deputy Ranking Member on Parliament’s Defence and Interior Committee.

His background in security, governance and legislative affairs is believed to have influenced the caucus’ preference as the NDC prepares to navigate a challenging parliamentary landscape.

Sources indicate that considerations around regional balance and continuity within the Majority leadership structure also featured in discussions, with both Mr Agalga and Mr Ayariga hailing from the Upper East Region.

Mr Dafeamekpor, who has served as Majority Chief Whip since January 2025, had been considered a strong candidate due to his experience in coordinating parliamentary strategy and managing legislative proceedings.

However, the caucus is said to have favoured Mr Agalga’s combination of executive experience and parliamentary exposure as it seeks to strengthen its position in the House.

If confirmed, Mr Agalga will be responsible for coordinating government business in Parliament, ensuring unity within the Majority caucus and helping advance the administration’s legislative agenda ahead of the 2028 general election.

The NDC parliamentary leadership is expected to formally announce a decision before the House resumes full legislative activities.