Maytag model MDB6600AWW

the handle broke and when trying to replace it i found the clips on the front control pad that hold the handle broke so while trying to replace it, the flat wire "plug in" the wide one for the controls dosent seem to want to slide in to the slot. This is very flexible and thin(bad design) how can i get that in the slot on the black box without damaging it. I had a partial connection but some of the comtrols and indicator light did not work or the lights were faint.