The J.J. Rawlings Foundation has formally petitioned the Speaker of Parliament, demanding an investigation into what it describes as “unsavory and unprintable” remarks made by a Member of Parliament from the NPP against the late former President Jerry John Rawlings.
The request for a probe follows a yet-to-be-identified Member of Parliament referred to J.J. Rawling’s daughter, Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, who is also an MP as the “daughter of a murderer” during a parliamentary session on January 4, 2025.
In a strongly worded statement, the Foundation expressed “absolute disbelief” over the statements made on the parliamentary floor.
According to the Foundation, the comments made not only tarnish the legacy of the former president but also constitute a “gross abuse and disrespect” toward his daughter, who serves as the Member of Parliament for Klottey Korle.
“Mr. Speaker, the toxic and untruthful comments were not only an indictment on Parliament but on the entire country. It exposed a desire by a select few members of Parliament to hide under the guise of the August House to provoke a toxic atmosphere within the political environment”.
J.J. Rawlings Foundation
The statement emphasized to the Speaker and the broader public the significant influence Jerry John Rawlings had on shaping Ghana’s political landscape.
As the first President of the Fourth Republic, Rawlings played a crucial role in establishing and strengthening the country’s current democratic system.
His leadership was instrumental in laying the foundation for Ghana’s longest-standing and most stable political era, ensuring a governance structure that has endured and evolved over the years.
J.J. Rawling’s contributions, the Foundation noted, remain deeply embedded in the nation’s history and democratic progress.
J. J. Rawlings’ Enduring Legacy
Building on J.J. Rawling’s remarkable contributions, the Foundation further emphasized Rawlings’ unwavering dedication to Ghana’s political and socio-economic development.
It highlighted his exceptional “sacrifice, selfless leadership, and unrelenting commitment” to the nation, shaping its trajectory through decisive action and bold reforms.
The statement recounted Rawlings’ dramatic entry into Ghanaian politics on May 15, 1979, when he first emerged as a leader advocating for justice and accountability.
His leadership during this period led to the formation of the Provisional National Defence Council (PNDC), under which he steered the country through a critical phase of restructuring and stabilization.
His eventual transition from military rule to civilian governance marked a defining moment in Ghana’s history, as he became the first President of the Fourth Republic, ushering in a new era of democratic rule.
“He took difficult decisions that Ghana required to uplift her out of political and economic turmoil. He took a tough stance on right and wrong at a time when Ghana had lost her societal moral fiber. He was indeed Ghana’s Strong Man, which allowed others the luxury to be weak on unpopular and tough decisions.”
J.J. Rawlings Foundation
The Foundation further highlighted that Rawlings’ influence was not confined to Ghana alone but resonated on the global stage, where he earned recognition for his dedication to inclusive governance and strong anti-corruption principles.
It firmly rejected any attempts to misrepresent his legacy, asserting that such efforts were misleading and disingenuous.
Defense of Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings
Furthermore, the Foundation commended Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings for her dedication and impact as a parliamentarian, highlighting her consistent effectiveness, efficiency, and reliability since assuming office in 2017.
It also acknowledged the significance of her ability to secure her seat as an opposition MP for three consecutive terms, emphasizing the political resilience required to achieve such a feat.
Additionally, the Foundation strongly condemned the legislator accused of making derogatory remarks about Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings, asserting that such comments reflected deep-seated gender bias and discrimination against women within Parliament.
“For a colleague MP to crudely shut her down during parliamentary proceedings exposes his misogyny and bias against women, but more so, it is a matter of gross abuse and disrespect that cannot be ignored, Mr. Speaker.”
J.J. Rawlings Foundation
The J.J. Rawlings Foundation, therefore, urged Parliament to uphold a standard of decorum and show due respect to individuals who have made significant contributions to Ghana’s history.
It called on the Speaker to take firm action to prevent similar instances of inappropriate and irresponsible behavior in the House.
By submitting this petition, the Foundation has added its voice to the broader discussion on the need for civility and responsible engagement within Ghana’s legislative process, especially as concerns mount over the growing politicization of parliamentary debates.
