A political scientist at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Mohammed Abass, has advised the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to avoid silencing its members when they speak out on internal party issues.
Speaking on ABC in the Morning, Mr. Abass urged party leaders to handle dissent maturely when members express dissatisfaction or challenge party policies.
His comments follow recent remarks by former Dome Kwabenya MP, Adwoa Safo, who publicly voiced her frustrations over incidents that have occurred within the party in recent years.
“Issues that have to do with how a person generally feels about the party are of public interest to all of us, and the party needs to listen to them and see what it can take out of it,” he stated.
Mr. Abass cautioned that restricting members from expressing their views does not serve the party’s democratic principles and could lead to further divisions.
“These few issues cross paths, and the party should not be seen, in a democratic dispensation, trying to restrict…”
He further emphasized that such restrictions are often ineffective and may worsen the situation.
“Those restrictions don’t work, and they are also not necessary. They mostly end up escalating matters,” he added.
Mr. Abass’ remarks highlight ongoing concerns about internal democracy within the NPP, as the party faces criticism for its handling of internal grievances and public dissent.