KEY POINTS
Alfred Kwame Agbesi was a lawyer and three-term MP for Ashaiman, serving from 2005 to 2017 under multiple Ghanaian presidents.
He played a leading role in Parliament and represented Ghana at the ECOWAS Parliament in 2009 and 2013.
Agbesi passed away at age 70 in May 2025, remembered for his legal expertise, public service, and commitment to democracy.
Alfred Kwame Agbesi, a respected Ghanaian lawyer and politician, passed away on 2 May 2025 at the age of 70, according to Ghana Business News. Known for his years of service in Parliament and the legal profession, Agbesi’s life story reflects a journey of persistence, public commitment, and political acumen. Here’s everything you need to know about the late Alfred Kwame Agbesi:
1. Early Life and Education
Born on 20 February 1955 in Agave-Afedume, a town located in what was formerly British Togoland (now part of the Volta Region of Ghana), Alfred Agbesi rose from modest beginnings. He completed his Bachelor of Laws degree at the University of Ghana, Legon, in 1979. Two years later, he was called to the Ghana Bar in 1981 after attending the Ghana School of Law.
2. Legal Career
Before entering politics, Agbesi worked with the Judicial Service of Ghana, where he established a strong reputation for legal integrity. His work in the legal field laid the foundation for his transition into national leadership and lawmaking.
3. Political Journey and Parliamentary Career
Alfred Agbesi began his political career as a member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC). He was elected to Parliament for the Ashaiman Constituency in the 2004 general elections, securing 56.9% of the vote. His victory was significant in solidifying NDC’s strength in the Greater Accra Region during that electoral cycle.
He served three consecutive terms in Parliament:
- From 2005 to 2009 under President John Kufuor
- From 2009 to 2013 under Presidents John Atta Mills and John Mahama
- From 2013 to 2017 during President Mahama’s administration
Agbesi also held the influential role of Deputy Majority Leader during his tenure, and he was selected as a member of Ghana’s delegation to the ECOWAS Parliament in Abuja, Nigeria, in both 2009 and 2013.
“His work at the ECOWAS Parliament was a reflection of Ghana’s growing influence in West African legislative affairs,” noted a former colleague.
4. 2004 Elections and Political Significance
Agbesi’s 2004 victory in Ashaiman was particularly noteworthy. He garnered over 53,000 votes, decisively defeating opponents from the People’s National Convention, the New Patriotic Party, and other parties. His win contributed to the NDC’s broader success in capturing 10 parliamentary seats in the Greater Accra Region and 94 seats nationwide in Ghana’s 4th Parliament of the 4th Republic.
Despite his influence, Agbesi lost the party primaries in 2015 to Ernest Norgbey, who succeeded him as Member of Parliament for Ashaiman in 2017.
5. Personal Life and Values
Agbesi was known to be a devout Christian and a family man, married with six children. His dedication to family and faith was a core part of his public image and private life.
“He carried himself with humility and commitment, often seen mentoring young politicians and lawyers,” one family friend shared.
6. Passing and Legacy
Alfred Kwame Agbesi passed away at the 37 Military Hospital in Accra on 2 May 2025. His death marks the end of a distinguished chapter in Ghanaian politics and law. Many tributes have poured in, celebrating his contributions to legal reforms, parliamentary governance, and democratic integrity.
His life serves as a reminder of the crucial role lawyers and lawmakers play in shaping society. While his voice may now be silent, the policies he supported and the lives he touched continue to speak volumes.
