Accra: The Anlo Dukor Council has formally petitioned the Speaker of Parliament to investigate defamatory remarks allegedly made against Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, the Member of Parliament for Klottey Korley Constituency. The remarks reportedly occurred during the parliamentary session for ministerial approvals on Tuesday, February 4, 2025.
According to Ghana News Agency, a letter dated February 5, 2025, addressed to the Speaker, Rt Hon. Alban Sumana Bagbin, was penned by Togbi Agbesi Awusu III, Awadada of Anlo Dukor. The letter expressed concern over the derogatory comments directed at Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings, reported to have been made during the heated discussions surrounding the approval of Mr. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa. The comments allegedly included the phrase, "Shut up, you daughter of a murderer," sparking significant public and international reaction as many followed the proceedings via television and radio broadcasts.
The Anlo Dukor Council's petition emphasized the derogatory nature of the statements aimed at Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings, who is the eldest daughter of the late former President Jerry John Rawlings, a respected figure in Anlo land. The remarks were deemed both defamatory and obscene, prompting the Council to call for accountability.
The letter suggested that preliminary information identified two MPs, Mr. Abu Jinapor of the Damongo Constituency and Nana Kwame Asafo-Adjei of the Bosome Freho Constituency, as potential sources of the comments. However, both MPs have denied any involvement in the incident.
The Council highlighted the severity of the situation, viewing the insult not only as an attack on Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings but also as an affront to the dignity of Anlo land and the Volta region's people. Togbi Agbesi Awusu III reiterated the Council's dedication to uncovering the truth and requested the Speaker's assistance in identifying the responsible party.
The Anlo Dukor Council urged for the matter to be resolved by February 10, 2025, stressing the importance of maintaining accountability and decorum within parliamentary proceedings. Copies of the petition have been distributed to Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings, Mr. Samuel Abu Jinapor, Nana Kwame Asafo-Adjei, and various press organizations.
