Former Majority Leader and Minister-designate for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga, has praised Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, describing him as a person of honesty, courage, fortitude and integrity.
Ayariga made the remarks while appearing before Parliament’s Appointments Committee for his ministerial vetting, where he reflected on his experience working with the Minority Leader.
Ayariga Commends Afenyo-Markin’s Leadership
The Bawku Central Member of Parliament acknowledged Afenyo-Markin’s assertive approach to parliamentary debates but said the Minority Leader has also demonstrated a strong ability to support consensus building and parliamentary cooperation.
According to Ayariga, their working relationship over the past year and a half showed him that Afenyo-Markin is committed to defending the interests of the Minority Caucus while carrying out his constitutional responsibility of scrutinising government business.
Ayariga noted that Afenyo-Markin’s forceful interventions in Parliament had sometimes attracted criticism from members of the Majority Caucus.
“Sometimes my own people ask me, ‘Why do you allow Afenyo to say all these kinds of things?’ But I tell them to allow him to play his role as Minority Leader, and I will find a way to get the decisions taken my way,” Ayariga said.
“You Have Integrity; You Are Honest, but Very Tough”
Reflecting on their time working together, Ayariga said he had developed a deep appreciation for Afenyo-Markin’s character and approach to parliamentary business.
“Working with you over the last one and a half years, I have come to know that you have integrity; you are honest, but very tough. I want to thank you for your forthrightness,” he added.
He explained that his willingness to accommodate Afenyo-Markin was based on his understanding that the Minority Leader has an important role in Ghana’s parliamentary democracy, particularly in scrutinising government policies and defending the interests of the Minority.
Ayariga Advises New Majority Leader
Ayariga also encouraged his successor, James Agalga, to establish a productive working relationship with Afenyo-Markin while remaining firm on matters of principle.
He advised Agalga not to simply concede to every demand from the Minority Leader, noting that effective parliamentary leadership requires consultation, dialogue and firmness.
“I hope you and my successor will find common ground to work together. I have already told him that he shouldn’t be yielding to you always. Even though I am a bit older than you, I sometimes tolerate you. But he is a man of your age, so be ready for him. Unlike me, he will respond to every issue,” he said.
Ayariga Appreciates Minority Caucus
The former Majority Leader said he genuinely enjoyed his experience working with Afenyo-Markin and expressed appreciation for the cooperation he received from the Minority Caucus.
He observed that, on some occasions, members of the Minority were even more willing to accommodate his position than members of his own Majority Caucus.
Ayariga’s comments highlight the importance of cross-party cooperation, consensus building and constructive parliamentary debate in Ghana’s democratic system as James Agalga takes over the Majority Leader position.
Source: newsthemegh.com