Parliamentary proceedings on February 4, 2025, took an ugly turn as what was meant to be a solemn discussion to mark the 60th anniversary of the death of Joseph Boakye Danquah spiraled into a heated confrontation between MPs. The debate quickly exposed deep-seated divisions within the legislative house, leading to fiery exchanges and personal attacks.
The tension began when Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, MP for Tamale Central, strongly objected to what he described as "exaggerated praises" being given to JB Danquah by members of the Minority. His remarks did not sit well with some MPs, leading to a fierce back-and-forth debate across the chamber. The situation soon got out of control, prompting the Second Deputy Speaker, Andrew Asiamah, to intervene. In an effort to restore order, Asiamah restricted contributions to only parliamentary leadership, preventing other MPs from engaging further in the discussion.
However, this decision did little to calm the chaos. Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, MP for Korle-Klottey, stood up, seeking permission to contribute to the discussion, but the Speaker ignored her request and instead gave the floor to Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin. This action appeared to further inflame tensions, as several MPs began interrupting, and soon, the chamber was in total disorder.
In the midst of the chaos, an unidentified voice from the Minority side was heard hurling an offensive remark at Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, calling her the “daughter of a murderer” and ordering her to sit down. This shocking statement, referring to her late father, former President Jerry John Rawlings, immediately intensified the uproar. Another MP, also believed to be from the Minority side, followed up with an even more provocative remark, saying, “But there is evidence that her father killed people.”
The incident left many in shock, as it marked yet another example of the toxic political culture that has plagued Ghana’s Parliament in recent times. Afenyo-Markin, who had been given the floor, tried to calm the chamber and proceeded with his contribution, but the damage had already been done.
The derogatory remarks against Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings have sparked widespread condemnation, with many observers questioning the declining standards of decorum in Ghana’s Parliament. Critics argue that such personal attacks and political insults do not only deepen divisions but also undermine the credibility of the legislative body.
Political analysts believe that the exchange highlights a growing lack of discipline and respect among lawmakers, raising concerns about the ability of Parliament to engage in constructive debates without descending into partisan bickering and personal vendettas.
As the dust settles on this controversy, many are calling for stronger leadership to ensure that parliamentary debates remain dignified, issue-based, and productive, rather than serving as a platform for trading insults and reopening historical wounds.
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