Afenyo-Markin: ‘I’ll Miss Ayariga’s Straightforward, Easygoing Style’

Minority Leader *Alexander Afenyo-Markin* says he will miss the open and easygoing nature of *Mahama Ayariga* after the former Majority Leader’s appointment as Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs.

Mr. Ayariga was nominated to the ministerial role and has since been replaced as Majority Leader by *James Agalga*.

Speaking on Metro TV on *Monday, August 10, 2026*, the Effutu MP praised his colleague across the aisle for being direct and free of grudges, qualities he said made it easier to work together despite political differences.

“*I miss him. He has his strengths. He has things that I like about him. You know, he’s an affable, easygoing character*,” Mr. Afenyo-Markin said.

He noted that Mr. Ayariga was transparent with his views and never allowed disagreements to become personal.

“*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 added.

According to the Minority Leader, the Bawku Central MP would address issues head-on rather than let them fester.

“*If he’s not happy with you, he will call as a leader. ‘This one, I’m not happy with you,’*” he recalled.

Mr. Afenyo-Markin also admitted their time in leadership had its share of political surprises, but said it never derailed their working relationship.

“*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*.”

Despite being on opposite sides, he said they managed to work productively in Parliament.

“*But all in all, I think we’ve worked well, and I wish him well in his new portfolio*,” he concluded.