By: Muhammed Faisal Mustapha/Felix Ernest Odamtten
The controversy surrounding what many have described as irresponsible remarks made by the Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Awutu Senya East Constituency of the Central Region, Mr. Stephen Ofosu Agyare, about the Member of Parliament for Awutu Senya East, Hon. Phillis Naa Koryoo Okunor, has continued to generate public outrage.
According to a WhatsApp voice note of the constituency chairman shared by himself and circulated in a WhatsApp group in which the Vice President, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, is reported to be a member, he claimed that he had been in a romantic relationship with the MP and that they had been intimate on several occasions.
These allegations are serious enough to warrant a prompt, transparent and impartial investigation by the National Executives of the NDC. If party rules have been breached, appropriate sanctions should be considered against Mr. Stephen Ofosu Agyare to prevent future occurrences.
What has become even more disturbing is the apparent silence of the leadership of the NDC, the party’s Women’s Wing, Parliament’s Women’s Caucus and many women’s rights organisations that have consistently spoken against the abuse and humiliation of women in public life.
Hon. Naa Koryoo is a married woman. Allegations of this nature, particularly when circulated widely on social media before any independent verification, have the potential to damage not only her public reputation but also her marriage and family life. This makes the need for a responsible and timely response even more urgent.
According to the WhatsApp voice note currently circulating on social media, Mr. Ofosu Agyare is heard saying that no party leader can sanction him. If accurately represented, such a statement would suggest a worrying belief that he is beyond accountability and untouchable.
That perception, if left unaddressed, could undermine public confidence in the NDC’s commitment to discipline and internal accountability, while creating room for indiscipline within the party.
Many political observers believe the continued silence of the party leadership is beginning to create the impression that the matter is not being treated with the seriousness it deserves. Whether or not that perception is fair, it is one the party cannot afford to ignore.
The NDC has built much of its political identity on justice, equality and defending the vulnerable. Those values should be demonstrated through action whenever serious issues emerge, regardless of who is involved.
Hon. Naa Koryoo has been widely recognised by party supporters in the constituency as someone who stood firmly with the NDC during difficult periods. During the years the party was in opposition, she endured significant personal and political challenges while remaining committed to the party’s cause. She went on to defeat an incumbent Member of Parliament, a victory many supporters regard as evidence of her resilience and sacrifice.
Many supporters therefore believe she should not be left to endure public humiliation without a clear and decisive response from the very party she has served.
This is bigger than one individual or one constituency.
Until today, at the time of filing this article, no prompt disciplinary action has been taken. If the National Executives of the party fail to act, the consequences could extend beyond Awutu Senya East. It could damage the NDC’s image nationally by creating the perception that some party officials are above accountability.
Political parties earn public trust not only through campaign promises but also through how they respond when difficult issues arise within their own ranks.
This is also a defining moment for Parliament’s Women’s Caucus, the NDC Women’s Wing and women’s advocacy groups across Ghana. Their credibility depends on defending the dignity of women consistently, not selectively.
Every Ghanaian, man or woman, should reject any conduct that demeans women in public life. Respect for women must never be determined by political affiliation.
The NDC leadership now faces a critical test. The party should ensure that the allegations are investigated fairly and swiftly and, if wrongdoing is established, appropriate disciplinary measures should follow in accordance with the party’s rules.
A timely and transparent response would not only protect the dignity and reputation of Hon. Naa Koryoo Okunor but would also reinforce public confidence that no individual is above the rules of the party.
For many Ghanaians, silence is no longer enough. They are looking for leadership, accountability and action.