In a rare moment of introspection, Davis Ansah Opoku, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament for Mpraeso, has publicly acknowledged his past misjudgment of Sarah Adwoa Safo, the former MP for Dome-Kwabenya.
His statement, laced with regret, underscores a broader appeal for empathy and unity within the NPP, urging party leadership to reconsider its approach toward internal dissent and disciplinary actions.
Adwoa Safo, a former Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection, became a subject of intense scrutiny during the 8th Parliament.
Her extended absence from parliamentary proceedings and the controversies surrounding it led to widespread criticisms from within the NPP, including from party stalwarts and colleagues in Parliament.
However, in a candid reflection, Opoku has now admitted that those criticisms may have been misplaced, acknowledging the personal and familial struggles Adwoa Safo was going through at the time.
“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”.
Hon. Davis Ansah Opoku, NPP Member of Parliament for Mpraeso Constituency
His remarks highlighted the need for the NPP to adopt a more compassionate and inclusive approach to handling internal grievances.
He recounted his own role in the criticism, admitting to attacking Adwoa Safo on some occassions without fully understanding the gravity of her personal challenges.
“I went on radio and attacked you, not knowing the full weight of what you were going through as a mother and as a person. Many who later came to understand your story regret how we treated you”.
Hon. Davis Ansah Opoku, NPP Member of Parliament for Mpraeso Constituency
Opoku’s statement comes at a time when tensions within the NPP are high, especially regarding disciplinary actions and internal disagreements.
He pointedly urged party leadership to exercise caution and sensitivity in dealing with issues of internal dissent, particularly in the case of Adwoa Safo.
“To our party leadership, I say this—let us be sensitive. Many have spoken freely within the party without being summoned, so why should Adwoa’s voice be treated differently? Leadership must not see this as an opportunity for punishment but as a call for engagement”.
Hon. Davis Ansah Opoku, NPP Member of Parliament for Mpraeso Constituency
Call for Dialogue
His plea for restraint and dialogue rather than punitive measures is particularly significant as the NPP navigates the complexities of party unity aftermath of the 2024 elections.
He emphasized that coercion and alienation should not be the party’s approach, advocating instead for genuine engagement and understanding.
“Instead of coercion, we must seek understanding. Instead of alienation, we must draw closer. She does not trust the Prof Oquaye’s committee for obvious reasons, and that concern must be respected. If we are a family, we must provide an avenue for her to air her concerns, not push her into a corner”.
Hon. Davis Ansah Opoku, NPP Member of Parliament for Mpraeso Constituency
His comments reflect broader concerns within the party about how leadership handles internal criticism and differing viewpoints.
Many political observers have pointed out that the NPP’s ability to maintain cohesion will be critical in its rebuilding efforts after the historic December 2024 elections lost.
“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,” he concluded.
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