Responding to the appointment of outgoing Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga to head the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin indicated that the parliamentary opposition plans to thoroughly examine the nomination.
Addressing Parliament during an emergency session on Monday, August 24, 2026, Afenyo-Markin clarified that the Minority side intends to put the candidate through a rigorous vetting process.
“On Mahama Ayariga’s nomination as Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, we look forward to critically examining that nomination fearlessly at the Appointments Committee,” he stated.
Afenyo-Markin emphasized that the incoming minister must be ready to tackle Ghana’s pressing public health and municipal issues, particularly regarding national sanitation standards.
“We hope he arrives at that ministry equipped to confront the filth that has overtaken our cities and towns. Filth must no longer sit at the door of government for failing to enact a sanitation policy,” he said.
Even with intense political examination awaiting the nominee, the Minority Leader took a moment to express personal affection and nostalgia for his departing colleague, highlighting their longstanding working relationship despite their political differences.
“Mr. Speaker, personally I am filled with nostalgia. This is a man I have always respected and I will dearly miss him in our usual banter on this House floor. Mahama, I respect you. I have enjoyed our friendship. The media sometimes misconstrues the exchanges but you and I know what we know,” Afenyo-Markin said.
“Congratulations and I wish you well and many more accomplishments.”
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana