Member of Parliament (MP) for Mpraeso, Davies Opoku Ansah, has called on the leadership of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to engage former Dome-Kwabenya MP, Sarah Adwoa Safo, with understanding, rather than punitive measures.
Reflecting on the intense criticism Adwoa Safo faced during the 8th Parliament, Opoku Ansah, admitted that many, including himself, had been unfair in their judgments of her.
“In the 8th Parliament, no MP endured more criticism than you, Adwoa. Many of us, myself included, judged you harshly. We blamed you for actions and inactions that we believed had dire consequences for our party. But today, with reflection, I say—we were wrong,” he stated.
He acknowledged that he had personally criticised Adwoa Safo on radio without fully understanding the challenges she faced, particularly as a mother and individual. He added that many who later came to appreciate her struggles now regret how she was treated.
Opoku Ansah, urged the party’s leadership to be more sensitive in dealing with her concerns, stressing that many within the party have spoken freely without repercussions, and Adwoa Safo should be given the same opportunity.
“Leadership must not see this as an opportunity for punishment but as a call for engagement. Instead of coercion, we must seek understanding. Instead of alienation, we must draw closer,” he emphasised.
He further pointed out that Adwoa Safo’s lack of trust in the committee led by Prof. Mike Oquaye, was understandable and should be respected. If the NPP prides itself as a family, he argued, then the party must provide a safe space for her to express her concerns rather than pushing her into isolation.
Calling for a more thoughtful approach, Opoku Ansah, concluded, “This is a moment for reflection, not retribution. Let’s handle this with the care, wisdom, and unity our party dearly needs. Let’s be better. Let’s do better.”
His comments come amidst internal party discussions over Adwoa Safo’s recent remarks and growing concerns over how dissenting voices are handled within the NPP.
