The Speaker of Ghana’s Parliament condemned offensive remarks made against MP Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, calling the comments as “unwarranted” and “offensive.” A petition from the J.J. Rawlings Foundation prompted an investigation into the incident that occurred during a parliamentary session. The Speaker stressed that while freedom of speech exists, it must be exercised responsibly within a framework of respect and integrity.
On March 4, 2025, Mr. Alban Bagbin, the Speaker of Ghana’s Parliament, condemned disrespectful remarks made against Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, a Member of Parliament for Klottey Korle, during a session on February 4. The comments were described as “unwarranted, unjustified, and deeply offensive,” specifically referring to Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings as the “daughter of a murderer.” The Speaker expressed regret for having to repeat such a statement, highlighting the severity of the situation.
Mr. Bagbin stated, “Such conduct is dishonourable and I strongly condemn it as a behaviour unbefitting of a Member of Parliament,” underscoring the importance of conducting oneself with integrity in Parliament. This condemnation followed a petition submitted by the J.J. Rawlings Foundation, which called for an investigation into the matter and accountability for the offending MP. The Foundation described the comments as “toxic and untruthful.”
The Speaker affirmed that while Members of Parliament possess freedom of speech, this privilege is not absolute and must be exercised with responsibility. He remarked, “Parliament is a place for constructive debate, guided by principles of mutual respect and integrity,” reflecting the need for respectful discourse. Mr. Bagbin emphasized that there is no place for language intended to offend or demean others in Parliament.
A formal investigation has commenced to identify the MP responsible for the comments, with Speaker Bagbin encouraging the individual to acknowledge their actions and consider a plea bargain. He cautioned that failure to do so would result in “dire consequences.” This incident has provoked widespread condemnation and heightened calls for civility in Ghana’s political discussions.
The controversy erupted as a result of a derogatory remark aimed at Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings during a parliamentary session held on February 4, which coincided with the commemoration of the 60th anniversary of Joseph Boakye Danquah’s death. An unidentified male voice was noted to have shouted, “Daughter of a murderer, sit down!” during Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin’s address, leading to immediate turmoil within the chamber and prompting murmurs of disapproval among other MPs.
In summary, the Speaker of Ghana’s Parliament has firmly condemned the derogatory comments made against Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, calling for accountability and respect in parliamentary discourse. The ongoing investigation aims to identify the offending Member of Parliament. Mr. Bagbin’s remarks underscore the necessity of maintaining decorum and integrity within the legislative body, amidst calls for greater civility in political dialogue in Ghana.
Original Source: gna.org.gh
