The word "controlled the affairs of" refers to having authority or power over a situation or organization. Some antonyms for this phrase could include "had no influence over," "was powerless to affect," or "had no say in." Other options might include "abdicated responsibility for," "delegated authority to others," or "let things happen as they may." Depending on the context, the opposite of controlling affairs could also be described as letting things run their natural course, allowing chaos to reign, or simply choosing not to intervene. Ultimately, the antonyms for this phrase will depend on the specific context in which it is being used.