Newly appointed Majority Leader James Agalga has defended his appointment, insisting that his extensive parliamentary experience has equipped him to lead the Majority caucus and dismissing claims that he lacks the leadership credentials for the position.
The Builsa North Member of Parliament said his years of serving as a Ranking Member, Committee Chairman and seasoned legislator have prepared him for the demands of the office.
His response comes after former Defence Minister Dominic Nitiwul questioned his suitability for the role during an interview on Eyewitness News on Friday, August 7, 2026. Mr. Nitiwul argued that despite being one of Parliament’s longest-serving MPs, Mr. Agalga had not previously occupied a top leadership position in the House.
Reacting to the criticism, Mr. Agalga dismissed suggestions that he could be intimidated in his new role, saying his parliamentary record speaks for itself.
“I think that the end shall justify the means. Do I look like somebody who can be bullied?” he said.
“We leave the rest for the people to judge when we settle down to work.”
Mr. Agalga stressed that he is far from inexperienced in parliamentary leadership, citing his eight-year tenure as Ranking Member and his current position as Chairman of Parliament’s Defence and Interior Committee.
“I want to assure you that I am not new to leadership in Parliament. I have been Ranking Member for eight solid years. I am currently the Chairman of the Defence and Interior Committee. To that extent, it cannot be said that I am new to leadership,” he stated.
He also pointed to his longevity in Parliament, arguing that his experience has earned him the respect of fellow lawmakers.
“I am a full-term Member of Parliament. I do not think that any colleague of mine in the House can bully me,” he said.
Mr. Agalga maintained that the true measure of his leadership would be reflected in his performance when Parliament resumes, urging critics to judge him based on results rather than speculation.
“But like I said, the end shall justify the means,” he concluded.
