Emmanuel Agyarko: A Pillar of Public Service in Ghana’s Parliament

In Ghana’s Fourth Republic, few politicians earned as much respect across party lines for their intellect, professionalism, and dedication to public service as Emmanuel Kwabena Kyeremateng Agyarko. A pharmacist by training and a lawmaker by choice, Agyarko served as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Ayawaso West Wuogon until his untimely passing in 2018, leaving behind a legacy of principled leadership, healthcare advocacy, and public accountability.

Early Life and Education

Emmanuel Agyarko was born on December 10, 1957, into a prominent family with deep roots in Ghana’s public and political life. He was the brother of Boakye Agyarko, a notable energy expert and former Minister of Energy, and came from a lineage known for producing professionals and public servants.

Agyarko pursued a career in pharmacy, graduating from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) with a degree in pharmaceutical sciences. He later became a licensed pharmacist and played significant roles within Ghana’s health sector before transitioning into politics.

Professional Background in Health

Before entering Parliament, Emmanuel Agyarko served as the Chief Executive Officer of the Food and Drugs Board (now the Food and Drugs Authority – FDA). In this role, he was responsible for regulating the safety and efficacy of food, drugs, cosmetics, and medical devices in Ghana. His tenure was marked by strong enforcement of regulatory standards, earning him respect in the health and pharmaceutical industries.

His scientific background and experience in health regulation shaped much of his political focus, especially in areas relating to public health, drug policy, and consumer safety.

Political Career

Emmanuel Agyarko joined the New Patriotic Party (NPP), one of Ghana’s two major political parties, and became a prominent voice within its ranks. In the 2012 general elections, he was elected as the Member of Parliament for the Ayawaso West Wuogon Constituency, a diverse and influential urban constituency located in the Greater Accra Region.

He was re-elected in 2016, serving in Ghana’s 6th and 7th Parliaments under the Fourth Republic. During his time in Parliament, Agyarko was known for his calm demeanor, analytical mind, and unwavering commitment to democratic principles.

Parliamentary Committees and Contributions

Agyarko was a key member of several important parliamentary committees, including:

• Environment, Science and Technology Committee

• Government Assurances Committee

• Health Committee

His background as a pharmacist gave him unique insights on national health policy, and he was a strong advocate for reforms in Ghana’s pharmaceutical regulations and health service delivery.

He was also known for his firm stance on issues of accountability and transparency in governance, and frequently contributed to debates on energy, public procurement, and institutional reform.

Personal Character and Public Image

Unlike many politicians who courted populism, Emmanuel Agyarko was seen as a policy-oriented leader who preferred thoughtful dialogue to political theatrics. He was widely respected for his integrity, intellect, and humility, and often served as a bridge between opposing viewpoints in Parliament.

Colleagues from both sides of the political aisle praised him for his non-partisan approach to public service. He was particularly effective in engaging with the educated and urban electorate of Ayawaso West Wuogon, which includes university students, professionals, and diplomats.

Sudden Passing and National Reaction

Tragically, Emmanuel Agyarko passed away on November 21, 2018, while receiving medical treatment in the United States. He had reportedly been battling a long-term illness, though his death came as a shock to many Ghanaians.

His passing created a significant void in Parliament and in his constituency, where he had become a trusted and admired representative. The news prompted an outpouring of condolences from political leaders, civil society, and constituents.

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, fellow parliamentarians, and leading members of the opposition all paid tribute to his contributions to Ghana’s democratic process and development.

A by-election was later held in January 2019, which saw his widow, Lydia Seyram Alhassan, win the seat on the ticket of the NPP—continuing his political legacy in Ayawaso West Wuogon.

Legacy

Emmanuel Agyarko’s life and career reflect the best of Ghanaian public service—professionalism, humility, and a deep commitment to national development. Though he served in Parliament for just over six years, his impact on health policy, good governance, and constituency representation was far-reaching.

He remains a respected figure in Ghanaian political history, remembered not just for what he achieved, but for how he conducted himself in service to the people—with dignity, intelligence, and unwavering integrity.

In Summary:

• Who: Emmanuel Kwabena Kyeremateng Agyarko, Ghanaian politician and pharmacist.

• Role: MP for Ayawaso West Wuogon (2012–2018); former head of Ghana’s Food and Drugs Board.

• Achievements: Influential in health regulation, parliamentary oversight, and public accountability.

• Legacy: Left behind a legacy of principled leadership, and was succeeded by his wife in Parliament after his death in 2018.