The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Bagbin, has issued a one-week ultimatum for the unidentified Member of Parliament responsible for the offensive comment, “Daughter of a murderer,” to come forward as investigations commence.
Speaking during parliamentary proceedings on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, Speaker Bagbin described the remark as highly inappropriate and a sign of gross disrespect toward the family of the late former President Jerry John Rawlings.
“The dignity of Parliament must be upheld, and such conduct cannot be tolerated,” Bagbin stated.
He confirmed that a formal investigation has been launched to identify the MP responsible, adding that the individual could face suspension under parliamentary standing orders.
The controversy stems from an incident during the ministerial approval session on February 4, 2025, where the remark was allegedly directed at Hon. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, Member of Parliament for Korle Klottey and daughter of the former President. The words, reportedly heard by viewers and listeners of the parliamentary proceedings, sparked widespread condemnation.
The Anlo Dukor Council, through the Awadada of Anlo Dukor, formally petitioned the Speaker, urging him to identify and sanction the MP involved. The petition, submitted on behalf of Awoamefia Togbi Sri III and the Chiefs and people of Anlo, denounced the comment as defamatory and offensive.
Following public outcry, initial reports speculated that MPs Hon. Samuel Abu Jinapor (MP for Damango) and Hon. Nana Kwame Asafo-Adjei (MP for Bosome Freho) might have been responsible for the remark. However, both legislators have vehemently denied any involvement.
As the investigation unfolds, Speaker Bagbin has called for order and discipline among MPs, emphasizing the need to maintain decorum and mutual respect in parliamentary debates.
