Prof Dr Grace Ayensu Danquah, Member of Parliament for Essikado-Ketan, has issued a strong message on emotional intelligence and respectful discourse in politics, following subtle jabs at her nomination as Deputy Health Minister.
Rather than engage in public confrontation, she turned to social media to emphasize the value of maturity, character, and the importance of allowing room for disagreement.
In a Facebook post shared a day after the remarks, she wrote: “An environment that is not safe to disagree in is not an environment focused on growth. It’s an environment focused on control.” While the message didn’t mention any names, it was widely interpreted as a response to Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin’s parliamentary comments implying her appointment was made for “strange reasons.”
The Minority Leader’s remarks, which appeared to suggest that other MPs, particularly Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, were more deserving, were met with disapproval in the House. However, Dr Ayensu Danquah’s approach stood out for its calm and principled tone.
Rather than reacting with direct criticism, she opted to share broader lessons. “No matter how badly they treat you, never drop down to their level. Stay strong, stay calm, and walk away,” she advised. Her words struck a chord across social media, where many commended her for promoting a culture of grace over retaliation.
Dr Ayensu Danquah also addressed the essence of true leadership, reminding followers that it’s not status or titles that define a leader, but their treatment of others. “No matter how educated, talented, rich, or cool you believe you are, how you treat people ultimately tells all,” she wrote.
She encouraged both politicians and the public to embrace constructive feedback: “Accept both compliments and criticism. It takes both sun and rain for a flower to grow.”
Ending her reflection with a personal note, the Essikado-Ketan legislator reminded her audience that fulfillment lies in gratitude, not ambition: “Happiness isn’t about getting what you want all the time. It’s about loving what you have and being grateful for it.”
Her carefully worded response has since been applauded by political observers as a dignified example of conflict management and an urgent call for a more tolerant political climate.
