Speaker of Parliament apologizes to Zanetor Rawlings’ family over controversial remark

The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has issued an apology to the family of Hon. Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, Member of Parliament for Klottey Korle, following the controversial remark referring to her as “the daughter of a murderer” during parliamentary proceedings.

The offensive comment, made on the floor of Parliament on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, sparked public outrage and condemnation from various quarters.

The comment insinuated that Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings’ father was responsible for past political killings, a claim that has been a subject of historical debate. Many have described it as disrespectful and an affront to the legacy o former President Jerry John Rawlings, a key architect of Ghana’s Fourth Republic.

Addressing the matter, Speaker Bagbin expressed deep regret over the incident and emphasized that such remarks have no place in the country’s legislative chamber.

“It is therefore regrettable that in the course of the parliamentary proceedings on 4 February this year, an honorable member of this House was subjected to an unwarranted, unjustified, and deeply offensive, reckless remark of being referred to us for want of a better way to convey the remark, quote, the daughter of a murderer. I apologize for having to even repeat it.

“You all know the background, but it’s important to remind you, on Tuesday, 4 February 2025, Honorable Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, Member of Parliament for Klottey Korle and daughter of the father of the Fourth Republican Constitution, our late former freedom of speech, debates and proceedings in Parliament, ensuring that such discussions cannot be impeached or questioned in any court or place out of Parliament.” He stated.

Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, further disclosed that although parliamentary immunity protects MPs from civil or criminal proceedings for statements made in the House, the Parliamentary Committee on Privileges has the mandate to review and address comments deemed defamatory or inappropriate.

“This privilege of freedom of speech is reiterated in Order 22 of our Standing Orders. Honorable Members should, however, note that this privilege is not absolute and must be exercised responsibly and in accordance with the rules of Parliament. Article 116 of the 1992 Constitution provides that while Members of Parliament enjoy immunity from civil or criminal proceedings for statements made in Parliament, they remain accountable within Parliament through the Parliamentary Committee on Privileges when those statements are found to be prima facie defamatory.” He said.

Aside from the apology, the Speaker also announced the launch of a formal investigation to identify the MP responsible for the statement, and warned that failure by the MP to show up will result in stiffer punishment when the person is found out.

Source: Elvisanokyenews.net