Group petitions Parliament over “JB Danquah was a traitor” comment by an MP
A group has petitioned the Speaker of Parliament, demanding an apology from the Member of Parliament for Tamale Central and Minister of Science and Technology for allegedly referring to JB Danquah as a traitor and a member of America’s Central Intelligence Agency (CIA).
The group, Coalition for Youth Development in Okyeman, considers the MP’s comments denigrating, disrespectful, and misleading.
They argue that the statement distorts historical facts and tarnishes the legacy of JB Danquah, a key figure in Ghana’s independence movement.
The group is also calling for the remarks to be expunged from the parliamentary record and an official apology to be rendered to JB Danquah’s family.
Dressed in red bands, the demonstrators submitted their petition to the Clerk of Parliament, Ebenezer Djetror, urging the Speaker to compel the MP to retract his statement.
“The Member of Parliament for Tamale Central, Murtala Muhammad, made false and denigrating remarks about JB Danquah. He contributed immensely to Ghana’s development. We want the Speaker to ensure he retracts his statement and apologizes to the family and Ghanaians,” he said.
A member of the Dankwa-Busia Tradition, Yaw Adomako Baafi, also condemned the remarks, stressing that Ghanaian leaders should be honoured, not disrespected.
“Our leaders deserve respect, not such unfortunate comments. JB Danquah was a man of conviction who fought for Ghana’s progress. He sacrificed for this country and was murdered. We should be celebrating his contributions, not tarnishing his legacy. The MP must apologize for his words,” he said.
Clerk of Parliament, Ebenezer Djetror, assured the group that their concerns would be addressed.
“We want to assure you that Parliament remains responsive to the needs and concerns of the public. In due course, the matter will be addressed,” he stated.
