A delegation from the Anlo traditional area, led by the Zipuito of Anlo Duker and former Member of Parliament, Hon. Dan Kwashie Abodakpi, has petitioned Parliament over a derogatory remark made against Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings.
The delegation urged Parliament to identify the MP who referred to Dr. Rawlings as a “daughter of a murderer” during a debate on a statement eulogizing J.B. Danquah.
Hon. Abodakpi strongly condemned the comment, emphasizing the pivotal role played by the late former President, Flt. Lt. Jerry John Rawlings, in shaping Ghana’s democratic landscape.
He described the remark as unfortunate and unacceptable, arguing that such statements undermine national unity and respect for past leaders.
Receiving the petition on behalf of Speaker Alban Bagbin, Clerk to Parliament Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror acknowledged the seriousness of the matter. He assured the delegation that Parliament upholds decorum and would take swift measures to identify the MP responsible for the remark, ensuring that appropriate punitive actions are enforced.
In a statement on the floor of Parliament, Speaker Bagbin condemned the insult, describing it as dishonourable and unbecoming of a legislator.
He insisted that the MP’s identity must be revealed and that Parliamentary rules governing such conduct be upheld. The Speaker urged members to engage in intellectual discourse rather than emotional outbursts and encouraged the individual responsible to come forward and seek a plea bargain to mitigate potential consequences.
Speaker Bagbin further reminded MPs that while Order 22 of the Standing Orders guarantees freedom of speech, it must be exercised within the boundaries of Parliamentary regulations. He reiterated that lawmakers are accountable to the citizenry and must conduct themselves accordingly.
Supporting the Speaker’s stance, Majority Leader Hon. Mahama Ayariga called on the MP in question to take responsibility, affirming that the majority side would back the Privileges Committee in applying the maximum possible sanctions. Meanwhile, Minority Chief Whip Hon. Frank Annor Dompreh expressed hope for a swift resolution and referenced two similar incidents that also required attention.
According to Parliamentary regulations, MPs found guilty of defamation could face suspension for up to nine months or, in extreme cases, expulsion from Parliament.
The petition has heightened calls for disciplinary action, with stakeholders closely watching how Parliament will address the matter in the coming days.
