Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin says he will miss the candid and easygoing nature of former Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga following his appointment as Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs.
He described Mr Ayariga as an “affable, easygoing character” whose straightforward approach to disagreements helped them maintain a productive relationship despite their political differences.
Mr Ayariga recently left his position as Majority Leader after being nominated as Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs. He was subsequently replaced as Majority Leader by James Agalga.
Speaking on Metro TV on Monday, August 10, 2026, Mr Afenyo-Markin said he particularly appreciated Mr Ayariga’s willingness to express his views openly and his ability to avoid holding grudges.
According to him, Mr Ayariga was someone whose positions were easy to understand because he did not conceal his feelings.
“I miss him. He has his strengths. He has things that I like about him. You know, he’s an affable, easygoing character,” he said.
“Ayariga will not hide his feelings. At least I could easily predict him on what he likes and what he doesn’t like. And he doesn’t hold grudges. That is one strength I would miss,” he stated.
Mr Afenyo-Markin said whenever Mr Ayariga was unhappy with an issue, he would address it directly rather than allow disagreements to escalate.
“If he’s not happy with you, he will call as a leader. This one, I’m not happy with you,” he recounted.
The Minority Leader, however, acknowledged that their parliamentary relationship was occasionally marked by surprises, with both politicians sometimes catching each other off guard during proceedings.
“There were times that he would surprise me. There were times that I also spring surprises on him. No politician likes surprises. But in the end, you are leading a side. You have a party interest to defend,” he said.
“But all in all, I think we’ve worked well, and I wish him well in his new portfolio,” he added.
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