Essikado-Ketan Member of Parliament, Prof Dr Grace Ayensu Danquah, has broken her silence with a powerful message of grace and self-restraint following Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin’s controversial remarks on her appointment as Deputy Health Minister.
Speaking on the floor of Parliament, Afenyo-Markin questioned the rationale behind Dr Ayensu Danquah’s nomination, implying that it was done for “strange reasons” and subtly comparing her elevation to the non-appointment of other female MPs such as Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings.
While the remarks ignited murmurs across the House and criticism from some quarters, Dr Ayensu Danquah chose a different path—one of emotional discipline and reflection.
In a Facebook post published the next day, she addressed the incident without naming Afenyo-Markin. “No matter how badly they treat you, never drop down to their level,” she wrote. “Stay strong, stay calm, and walk away.”
Her response quickly gained traction on social media, with many commending her poise and maturity in the face of political provocation.
Dr Ayensu Danquah used the moment to highlight deeper values she believes should define leadership. “No matter how educated, talented, rich, or cool you believe you are, how you treat people ultimately tells all,” she said, emphasizing character over credentials.
She further urged her audience to welcome both applause and criticism: “Accept both compliments and criticism. It takes both sun and rain for a flower to grow.”
In what many interpreted as a critique of political intolerance, she added: “An environment that is not safe to disagree in is not an environment focused on growth. It’s an environment focused on control.”
Her reflections concluded with a powerful reminder that transcends politics: “Happiness isn’t about getting what you want all the time. It’s about loving what you have and being grateful for it.”
Through her composed and thoughtful remarks, the Essikado-Ketan MP has signaled a call for civility and mutual respect, qualities many believe are sorely needed in Ghana’s political discourse.
