Parliamentary proceedings on February 4, 2025, took a disappointing turn when decorum gave way to insults and political score-settling.
The incident, which unfolded during discussions on the 60th anniversary of the death of Joseph Boakye Danquah, highlighted the failure of leadership in maintaining order and fostering constructive debate.
The session became heated after Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Member of Parliament for Tamale Central, challenged what he described as inaccurate praises being heaped on JB Danquah by the Minority.
His concerns sparked an intense back-and-forth, which led the presiding Speaker, Andrew Asiamah, to impose restrictions on contributions, allowing only parliamentary leadership to speak.
However, this decision appeared to stifle other MPs rather than restore order.
Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, the MP for Korle-Klottey, was on her feet, seeking permission to contribute when the Speaker ignored her and instead gave the floor to Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin.
As the Minority Leader spoke, other MPs interrupted, and the chamber descended further into disorder.
In a disturbing moment that exposed the toxic political culture in Parliament, a voice from the Minority side was heard hurling a deeply derogatory remark at Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, referring to her as the “daughter of a murderer” and ordering her to sit down.
Another unknown MP believed to be on the Minority side followed up, claiming, “But there is evidence that her father killed people.”
Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin then calmed the MPs and continued his contribution on the floor.
Such remarks, directed at the daughter of former President Jerry John Rawlings, not only reflect the deep-seated divisions within Parliament but also expose the lack of leadership in curbing personal attacks and fostering respectful dialogue.
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