Essikado-Ketan MP, Prof Dr Grace Ayensu Danquah, has called for a more respectful and open political environment, warning that any space where people feel unsafe to disagree is not about growth, but about control.

Her remarks come in the wake of controversial comments made by Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, who questioned her recent nomination as Deputy Health Minister. Speaking on the floor of Parliament, the Minority Leader suggested that Dr Ayensu Danquah’s appointment was for "strange reasons," implying favoritism over other female MPs, notably Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings.

While the comments drew sharp criticism within the House, Dr Ayensu Danquah took a more reflective approach in her public response.

Posting on Facebook a day after the incident, she shared a series of lessons on leadership, character, and emotional restraint. Among her key messages was a pointed observation about political and professional environments.

Read Also: Afenyo-Markin under fire for ‘strange elevation’ comment to Essikado MP ‘over’ Zanetor

“An environment that is not safe to disagree in is not an environment focused on growth. It's an environment focused on control,” she wrote.

The statement, though not a direct mention of Afenyo-Markin, was widely interpreted as a response to the Minority Leader’s remarks, which many saw as an attempt to undermine her appointment.

Her post has since triggered reactions on social media, with many praising her for spotlighting the deeper issue of intolerance in leadership spaces.

Dr Ayensu Danquah also used the moment to counsel against personal attacks and pettiness in public life.

“No matter how badly they treat you, never drop down to their level. Stay strong, stay calm, and walk away,” she wrote, signaling her refusal to engage in political mudslinging.

She further emphasised that true leadership is about character, not status or power.

“No matter how educated, talented, rich, or cool you believe you are, how you treat people ultimately tells all.”

Dr Ayensu Danquah encouraged both leaders and citizens to welcome criticism as part of growth.

“Accept both compliments and criticism. It takes both sun and rain for a flower to grow.”

Closing her post with a note of gratitude and perspective, she reminded followers that happiness is not about winning every battle but about contentment.

“Happiness isn’t about getting what you want all the time. It’s about loving what you have and being grateful for it.”

For the Essikado-Ketan MP, the message is clear: Leadership is not about control, it’s about creating room for different voices to be heard.

Read Also: “No matter how badly they treat you, never drop to their level”- Essikado MP after spat with Afenyo-Markin