John Jerry Rawlings Foundation Petitions Parliament Over Alleged Disrespectful Remarks
The John Jerry Rawlings Foundation has formally petitioned the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, to investigate alleged unsavory remarks made against Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, Member of Parliament (MP) for Klottey Korle and daughter of former President Jerry John Rawlings.
Outrage Over Alleged Toxic Comments
In a petition signed by Madam Yaa Asantewaa Agyeman-Rawlings, Executive Director of the Foundation, the organization expressed shock and dismay over unprintable words allegedly uttered by a New Patriotic Party (NPP) MP on the floor of Parliament on Tuesday, February 4, 2025.
“Mr. Speaker, these toxic and untruthful comments not only tarnish the dignity of Parliament but also damage the reputation of the entire nation,” the petition stated.
The Foundation accused some MPs of using Parliament as a platform to create a toxic political atmosphere rather than fostering constructive debate.
Defending Rawlings’ Legacy
The petition highlighted the pivotal role former President Rawlings played in shaping Ghana’s Fourth Republic, the nation’s longest and most successful democratic era. It emphasized his dedication to rebuilding Ghana’s political and socio-economic structures, from his emergence in 1979 through his leadership of the Provisional National Defence Council (PNDC) and into the Fourth Republic.
Described as “Ghana’s Strong Man,” Rawlings was praised for his tough but necessary decisions in guiding the nation through political and economic challenges. Internationally, he was recognized for his commitment to participatory leadership and his strong anti-corruption stance.
“It is dishonest for anyone to attempt to diminish his legacy in a moment of reckless speech,” the petition added.
Standing Up for Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings
The Foundation also defended Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings, describing her as an effective and reliable MP since 2017. It noted her significant achievement of securing her parliamentary seat three times as an opposition candidate.
The petition condemned the actions of the MP who allegedly interrupted her during parliamentary proceedings, calling it misogynistic and a gross act of disrespect.
“Mr. Speaker, it is disheartening and disturbing that the very House expected to safeguard the legacy of past leaders is now the stage for such abuse and offensive behavior,” the statement lamented.
Call for Accountability and Action
The Foundation, on behalf of millions of Ghanaians, formally requested an investigation into the matter. It urged Parliament to compel the offending MP to take responsibility and retract the defamatory remarks, which were described as inflammatory, despicable, and disgraceful.
The petition concluded with a call for urgent action to address the issue and restore dignity to Parliament.
Call to Action:
Join the conversation and stand for respectful governance. Share your thoughts on social media using the hashtag #RespectInParliament. For more on Ghana’s political history, visit the Parliament of Ghana’s official site.