Parliamentary proceedings in Ghana took a troubling turn on February 4, 2025, as discussions surrounding the 60th anniversary of Joseph Boakye Danquah’s death devolved into insults and political posturing. During the proceedings, a minister of parliament was heard in a video calling Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings who is his colleague MP a “daughter of a murderer”.
The incident underscored a failure of leadership to maintain order and promote constructive debate within the legislative body.
Tensions escalated after Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Member of Parliament for Tamale Central, challenged what he deemed inaccurate praise being directed towards JB Danquah by the Minority caucus.
His remarks triggered a heated exchange, leading the presiding Speaker, Andrew Asiamah, to limit contributions to only parliamentary leadership, a decision that seemingly stifled other MPs rather than restoring calm.
Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, the MP for Korle-Klottey, sought recognition to speak but was reportedly ignored by the Speaker, who instead granted the floor to Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin. Interruptions from other MPs then further disrupted the proceedings.
In a particularly disturbing moment, reflecting the toxicity of Ghana’s political climate, a voice from the Minority side was heard directing a deeply offensive remark at Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, referring to her as the “daughter of a murderer” and instructing her to sit down.
Another unidentified MP, believed to be associated with the Minority, followed up, claiming, “But there is evidence that her father killed people.”
Although Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin subsequently attempted to restore order and continue his contribution, the damage was done.
These attacks, targeting the daughter of former President Jerry John Rawlings, highlight the deep divisions within Parliament and the lack of leadership in preventing personal attacks and fostering respectful dialogue.
Samuel Abu Jinapor Denies Making The Derogatory Comments
Following reports that an MP hurled insults at Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings during parliamentary proceedings, Samuel Abu Jinapor, MP for Damongo, has vehemently refuted claims that he was the one responsible for the offensive remarks.
Social media users had attributed the derogatory comment to Abu Jinapor, who participated in the day’s discussions.
However, in a social media post on Wednesday, February 5, Abu Jinapor urged the public to disregard these allegations, emphasizing that he would never disrespect the late former President Jerry John Rawlings, whom he holds in high esteem.
“The general public is kindly advised to totally disregard the suggestion that I made unsavory comments about Hon. Dr. Zanetor Rawlings while she was on her feet on the floor of Parliament contributing to a statement,” his post began.
“For the record, the said allegation is absolutely false. I have utmost respect for Former President Jerry John Rawlings, his family, and Dr. Zanetor Rawlings in particular,” he continued.
Abu Jinapor further explained, “While he was alive, President Rawlings was someone who took a great liking to me and showed interest in me as a young politician. I had great respect for him as a Ghanaian statesman. I have never and will never denigrate the Rawlings family or any Ghanaian for that matter. That is not in my nature.”
The lawmaker reiterated his commitment to decent debates and intellectual discourse in Ghanaian public life, particularly within Parliament, devoid of insults and character assassination.
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Good morning
Ghana our leaders are part of some foolish things that are going on
please if you a leader, you need talk like you are matured,
don`t talk like child.
How can grown ups be behaving like this …………there should be maturity