Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has pledged that the Minority in Parliament will subject the nomination of outgoing Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga to thorough scrutiny when he appears before the Appointments Committee.

Mahama Ayariga has been nominated as Minister-designate for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs.

Speaking during Parliament’s emergency recall sitting on Monday, August 24, 2026, Afenyo-Markin said the Minority would critically examine the nomination without fear or favour.

“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 said.

The Minority Leader said the nominee must demonstrate that he is prepared to address the sanitation challenges confronting the country if approved for the position.

“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,” Afenyo-Markin stated.

Despite his warning of rigorous scrutiny, Afenyo-Markin adopted a cordial tone as he reflected on his relationship with Ayariga.

He said he would personally miss the outgoing Majority Leader and expressed his respect and appreciation for their friendship and exchanges on the floor of Parliament.

“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,” he said.

Afenyo-Markin added that although their parliamentary exchanges were sometimes misconstrued by the media, the two politicians understood the nature of their relationship.

“The media sometimes misconstrues the exchanges but you and I know what we know,” he said.

He congratulated Ayariga on his nomination and wished him success in his new role.