By Muhammed Faisal Mustapha/Felix Ernest Odamtten
Broadcast journalist Salifu Mase, popularly known as Mugabe, has criticised the leadership of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for what he described as its failure to address allegations arising from comments reportedly made by the party’s Awutu Senya East Constituency Chairman, Stephen Ofosu Agyare, against the Member of Parliament for Awutu Senya East, Hon. Phillis Naa Koryoo Okunor.
Speaking on his political programme, Inside Politics, on Accra-based TV XYZ, Mugabe described the alleged remarks attributed to the constituency chairman as unacceptable and said they deserved swift condemnation from the party’s leadership.
According to him, Hon. Naa Koryoo is a married woman and a mother whose dignity must be respected. He stressed that the NDC should not tolerate comments that undermine the reputation of its elected officials, particularly women.
Mugabe expressed disappointment that the controversy had been allowed to escalate without what he believes is decisive intervention from the party’s national leadership. He argued that the prolonged silence over the matter, coupled with the attacks on the young female MP, risks deepening divisions within the Awutu Senya East Constituency and damaging the party’s image.
He noted that party supporters worked tirelessly to help the NDC capture the seat, adding that one person lost his life during the electioneering process to secure victory for the party in the constituency. He said supporters were expecting improved development and effective representation rather than internal conflicts dominating public discussion.
The veteran broadcaster called on the leadership of the NDC to intervene immediately and take appropriate disciplinary action against the constituency chairman.
He further urged the constituency chairman to reflect on how he would feel if the MP were his own wife or sister, arguing that public attacks on party officials only weaken the party and discourage women from participating in politics.
Instead of engaging in public exchanges, Mugabe said the constituency chairman should focus on supporting the MP’s work by lobbying for greater development for Awutu Senya East and advocating her consideration for higher responsibilities, including a possible ministerial appointment in any future government reshuffle.
“I know there are senior figures in the party listening to me. They should do something about this and ensure that respect and dignity are accorded to women in the party,” Mugabe stated.
The controversy follows allegations that an audio recording circulating on social media contains remarks made by Stephen Ofosu Agyare about Hon. Naa Koryoo Okunor. At the time of filing this report, the NDC leadership had not publicly responded to the matter.