Minister-designate for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga, has commended Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin for what he described as his integrity, honesty and commitment to parliamentary duties.
Speaking during his vetting before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Thursday, August 27, Mr Ayariga reflected on his working relationship with the Minority Leader during their time on opposite sides of the House.
He acknowledged that Mr Afenyo-Markin consistently defended the Minority’s position and challenged government policies, describing such conduct as part of his responsibility as Minority Leader.
“You can trust that he will call trouble. You can trust that he will push his side’s position,” Mr Ayariga said.
He explained that he understood the political nature of their respective roles and therefore allowed Mr Afenyo-Markin to make his case while he also defended the government’s position as Majority Leader.
“He’s just playing his role. So let him play it. I’ll play mine,” he said.
Mr Ayariga said his interactions with Mr Afenyo-Markin over the past one and a half years had given him a deeper appreciation of his character.
“I’ve come to know you as a person of integrity and honesty,” he said, while thanking him for the openness and directness he brought to their engagements.
“I want to thank you for the forthrightness with which you have dealt with me as the Majority Leader,” he added.
The Bawku Central MP also described Mr Afenyo-Markin as a resilient politician who remained committed to his position despite disagreements and opposition.
“I know that you are very resilient. You never give up,” he said.
Mr Ayariga further acknowledged that although the Minority often engaged the government in vigorous debates, the caucus had at times supported government business to facilitate parliamentary approvals and other processes.
He said he had particularly enjoyed responding to the questions raised by Mr Afenyo-Markin during their time in Parliament.
“I honestly, honestly enjoyed your questions,” he said.
Mr Ayariga expressed hope that he would develop a similarly constructive relationship with Mr Afenyo-Markin’s successor, James Agalga, as he moves from his role as Majority Leader to the proposed ministerial position.
He maintained that despite political differences, the relationship between the two sides of Parliament could remain productive when members understood and respected their respective roles.
