Zanetor Rawlings: Parliament launches formal investigation into “Daughter of a Murderer” comment
Parliament has formally launched an investigation to identify the Member of Parliament (MP) responsible for the offensive remark made against Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, the MP for Klottey Korle, during a parliamentary sitting on 4th February 2025.
The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, announced the investigation while issuing an apology to Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, her family, and the chiefs and people of Anlo State over the "daughter of a murderer" comment, which was made by an unidentified MP during a heated debate.
Speaker apologises for offensive remark
Speaking in Parliament on March 4, one month after the incident, Speaker Bagbin expressed deep regret over the derogatory remark aimed at Dr Agyeman-Rawlings, the daughter of Ghana’s late former President Jerry John Rawlings.
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“In light of this incident, I extend my deepest apologies to Hon. Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, Member of Parliament for Klottey Korle, Her Excellency Nana Konadu Agyemang-Rawlings, former First Lady of Ghana and widow of our late industrious President, the family, the chiefs, and all the good people of Anlo Dukor and Anlo land,” he stated.
The Speaker described the situation as regrettable, noting: “It is a sad situation when one serving their country must endure such indignity.”
Background to the controversy
The offensive comment was made during a parliamentary session on February 4, amid heated discussions on the 60th anniversary of the death of Joseph Boakye Danquah.
During the debate, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin was addressing the House when an unidentified MP interrupted, shouting: “Daughter of a murderer, sit down!”
The incident sparked outrage, with several MPs condemning the remark. Speaker Bagbin has since described the outburst as "dishonourable and unbefitting of a sitting MP.”
Call for accountability and investigation
Beyond the apology, Speaker Bagbin announced that a formal investigation had been launched to identify the MP responsible for the comment. He warned that if the culprit does not voluntarily come forward within a week, harsher sanctions will be imposed once they are identified.
“It is regrettable that an Hon. Member was subjected to an unwarranted, unjustified, and deeply offensive reckless remark. I apologise for repeating it. Such conduct is dishonourable, and I strongly condemn it as a behaviour unbefitting of a sitting MP,” the Speaker stated.
He reaffirmed Parliament’s commitment to maintaining decorum and dignity, stressing that those responsible for violating parliamentary ethics will face consequences.
As the investigation progresses, the identity of the MP behind the offensive comment remains unknown, but the Speaker has vowed to ensure that justice is served to uphold the integrity of Parliament.
