Sarah Adwoa Safo, the Member of Parliament for Dome-Kwabenya, has issued a public apology for her extended absence from parliamentary duties. Her absence generated significant criticism and controversy, leading to debates within the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the nation as a whole.
Adwoa Safo acknowledged that her actions during this period were unjustifiable and expressed deep regret for her behaviour. She attributed her prolonged absence and the subsequent controversy to complex personal challenges she was facing in her private life.
In a video posted on her Facebook page, she stated, “It was not my intention to disrespect you. A lot was going on in my life and family. I’m using this medium to plead for your forgiveness in the name of God.”
The MP extended her apologies to various stakeholders, including the NPP, President Akufo-Addo, Vice President Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia, the Chief of Staff, Parliamentary Leadership and the party hierarchy. She also expressed remorse to party loyalists, constituents, and sympathizers.
Adwoa Safo’s absence from parliament, which began in November 2021 and lasted until her return on November 11, 2022, sparked intense debates and divisions within parliament and the NPP. The controversy escalated to the point where the Majority Leader and the Speaker of Parliament clashed over whether to subject Adwoa Safo’s fate to a vote.
The Privileges Committee had recommended that her seat be declared vacant due to her failure to explain her prolonged absence. However, Speaker Alban Bagbin ruled that the committee’s report was not final and needed to be presented before the entire House for a decision.
This decision was met with disagreement from the Majority Leader, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, who believed it was unfortunate and inconsistent.
The general public was divided on the motives behind Adwoa Safo’s absence, with constituents expressing uncertainty about her status in the area and its potential impact on development.
It is worth noting that Adwoa Safo was dismissed from her position as Gender Minister by President Akufo-Addo in July of the preceding year.