The Speaker of Ghana’s Parliament, Mr Alban Bagbin, has condemned an alleged unsavoury comments made against Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, a National Democratic Congress Member of Parliament for Klottey Korle, during a Parliamentary session on Tuesday, February 4, 2025.
The comments, described as “unwarranted, unjustified, and deeply offensive,” referred to Dr Agyeman-Rawlings as the alleged “daughter of a murderer”.
“I apologise for having to even repeat it!” the Speaker exclaimed, emphasising the gravity of the situation.
“Such conduct is dishonourable and I strongly condemn it as a behaviour unbefitting of a Member of Parliament,” Mr Bagbin said on the Floor of the House.
The Speaker’s statement comes after the J.J. Rawlings Foundation petitioned Parliament on Tuesday to investigate the matter and take action against the offending Member of Parliament (MP).
The Foundation described the comments as “toxic and untruthful,” and accused some MPs of using the platform of Parliament to create a toxic political atmosphere.
The Speaker emphasised that while MPs enjoyed freedom of speech, this privilege was not absolute and must be exercised responsibly.
He said: “Parliament is a place for constructive debate, guided by principles of mutual respect and integrity.”
“While we may differ in our views and engage in spirited discussions, there is no room for language that seeks to offend, abuse, insult, demean, defame, blaspheme, or impute improper motives,” Mr Bagbin added.
A formal investigation has been initiated to determine the identity of the MP who made the alleged comment.
The Speaker advised the offending MP to take responsibility and opt for a plea bargain within a week, warning of “dire consequences” if they fail to do so.
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation, with many calling for greater civility and respect in Ghana’s political discourse.
As the Speaker urged, “Let our debates be vibrant but fair. Let our words be truthful, candid, and civil. And let our service to the people of Ghana always be guided by honour, integrity, and respect.”
Mr Bagbin reiterated his commitment to upholding the integrity of Parliament.
Commenting on the Speaker’s directive, Majority Leader, Mr Mahama Ayariga urged the MP to take responsibility for their actions.
He also warned that if the MP refused to come forward, the House would support the imposition of the highest sanctions once the investigation identified the individual.
The controversial comment has sparked widespread outrage, with many calling for accountability and stricter enforcement of parliamentary conduct.
The controversy surrounding the alleged “daughter of a murderer” comment in Parliament centers on a derogatory remark directed at Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) MP for Klottey Korle and daughter of the late former President Jerry John Rawlings.
The incident occurred during a parliamentary session on Tuesday February 4, amid heated discussions commemorating the 60th anniversary of Joseph Boakye Danquah’s death.
As Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin addressed the House, an unidentified male voice from the Parliamentary backbench interrupted, allegedly shouting, “Daughter of a murderer, sit down!”
The alleged comment insinuated that Dr Agyeman-Rawlings’ father was responsible for past political killings, a claim that had been a subject of historical debate.
The outburst led to immediate chaos in the chamber, with MPs expressing shock and disapproval.
GNA
