‘Daughter of a Murderer’ vs. ‘CIA Agent’ Comments: Full breakdown of all that has transpired

At the center of the controversies are comments that referred to one person as the “daughter of a murderer” and another as a “CIA agent.”

The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has ordered an investigation to identify the Member of Parliament (MP) responsible for the “daughter of a murderer” remark directed at Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, the MP for Klottey Korle, who is also the eldest daughter of the late former President Jerry John Rawlings.

This is because that comment was made on the floor of Parliament.

The move by the Speaker of Parliament also comes in response to mounting pressure from the Anlo Dukor traditional leaders, the Volta Diaspora Caucus, and MPs from the NDC Majority Caucus.

Coincidentally, another controversy emerged during that same session of Parliament, which has prompted the Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Council to demand an apology for what they say are derogatory comments made against the late Dr JB Danquah, where he was labeled a “CIA agent” and a “traitor.”

For emphasis, both controversial remarks were made during the same parliamentary session. While the identity of the MP responsible for the “CIA agent” comment is known, the individual who made the “daughter of a murderer” remark remains unidentified.

To provide context and clarity, here’s a breakdown of everything you need to know.

The Comments: A Brief Background

Tensions flared in Parliament during the session on February 4, 2025, which marked the 60th anniversary of the passing of Dr Joseph Boakye (JB) Danquah.

The late politician was eulogised by Samuel Abu Jinapor, MP for Damongo, who credited Ghana’s democratic progress and adherence to the rule of law to Danquah’s vision and leadership.

Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, the MP for Tamale Central, who was seated next to Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, strongly disagreed, arguing that Dr Danquah was a “traitor” and a “CIA agent.”

These remarks elicited an angry response from NPP MPs, who expressed their disapproval with loud whistlings as Andrew Asiamah Amoako, the presiding Speaker, tried to restore order.

An unidentified voice, believed to belong to an NPP MP, was heard shouting, “Murderers! Children of murderers!” multiple times, followed by mocking laughter. The same voice repeated, “Soviet and Russian spies! Murderers’ children!” moments later.

When Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Minority Leader, took the floor, the same voice interrupted with, “Daughter of a murderer, sit down!” — a direct insult aimed at Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings.

Samuel Abu Jinapor Denies Involvement

Following the incident, some members of the public accused Samuel Abdulai Jinapor, MP for Damongo, of being the voice behind the remarks, igniting widespread criticism.

However, on February 5, 2025, Jinapor strongly denied any involvement, in a social media post, emphasising his admiration for the late President Jerry John Rawlings and reaffirming his deep respect for the Rawlings family.

Public Outrage and Petitions

While some Ghanaians condemned the remarks as deeply offensive, others defended them, citing past political tensions.

The comments have triggered intense public debate.

Speaker Bagbin received a formal petition from Awoamefia Togbi, the Overlord of Anlo Dukor, on February 5, 2025, demanding that the identity of the MP responsible for the derogatory remarks be disclosed by February 10, 2025.

Additionally, members of the NDC in the Klottey Korle constituency and the NDC Volta Diaspora Caucus also submitted petitions, insisting that those responsible be held accountable.

Speaker Bagbin’s Investigation and Apology

Speaker Bagbin issued a public apology to the Rawlings family, the Anlo traditional rulers, Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, and former First Lady, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, on March 4, 2025.

He assured that appropriate sanctions would be applied if necessary and confirmed that a formal investigation had been launched.

A one-week ultimatum was given by the Speaker for the responsible MP to come forward and take responsibility.

Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Council and the ‘CIA Agent’ Comments

The Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Council has also expressed its displeasure over the “traitor” and “CIA agent” remarks made against the late Dr. J.B. Danquah.

Osabarima Okogyeaman Apagya Fori IV, the warlord of Akyem Abuakwa and Kyebi Apapamuhene, demanded an immediate apology from the MP responsible for the comments and performed a libation ceremony at JB Danquah’s grave at Kyebi to honor his legacy.

Final Thoughts

Ghanaians are eagerly awaiting the revelation of the MP behind the “daughter of a murderer” comment and the outcome of the investigation.

The controversy is far from over, with both the Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Council and the Anlo Dukor Traditional Council actively demanding accountability.

One thing is certain, these comments have ignited a national conversation about the limits of free speech and the impact of words on individuals and the society.