Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin says he will miss the open and accommodating approach of former Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga following his move from Parliament to the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs.

Mr Afenyo-Markin described his former counterpart as someone who was straightforward in expressing his views and did not allow political disagreements to become personal.

Speaking on Metro TV on Monday, August 10, 2026, the Effutu MP said Mr Ayariga’s willingness to communicate his concerns directly was one of the qualities he valued most during their time working together in Parliament.

He said the former Majority Leader was easy to read politically and would make his position known whenever he disagreed with an issue.

“He’s an affable, easygoing character,” Mr Afenyo-Markin said, adding that Mr Ayariga’s refusal to hold grudges made their working relationship easier despite their differences.

According to him, Mr Ayariga would address disagreements openly rather than allow resentment to build.

The Minority Leader also acknowledged that their parliamentary rivalry occasionally produced unexpected moves from both sides.

“There were times that he would surprise me. There were times that I also sprang surprises on him,” he said.

Mr Afenyo-Markin, however, said such political manoeuvring was part of the responsibility of leaders representing opposing parties in Parliament.

He stressed that despite their differences, the two had managed to maintain a productive working relationship while defending the interests of their respective parties.

Mr Ayariga recently left his position as Majority Leader after President John Dramani Mahama nominated him to serve as Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs.

He has since been replaced as Majority Leader by James Agalga.

Mr Afenyo-Markin wished Mr Ayariga well in his new role, while acknowledging the contribution he made to their working relationship in Parliament.