Retired Supreme Court Justice William Atuguba has openly questioned why the Member of Parliament for Korle Klottey, Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, has not yet been appointed to a ministerial position in President John Dramani Mahama’s administration, describing her as a woman of principle, dedication and integrity who deserves greater national responsibility.
Justice Atuguba made the remarks during the Justice D. F. Annan Memorial Lecture, held in honour of the late Justice Daniel Francis Annan, the first Speaker of Parliament under Ghana’s Fourth Republic.
Speaking to the audience, the retired Supreme Court judge said he had closely followed Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings’ public service and parliamentary work over the years and had been impressed by her commitment to the people, despite never having met or spoken with her personally.
According to him, the Korle Klottey legislator exemplifies the type of leadership Ghanaians should expect from their elected representatives.
“Somebody like Zanetor Rawlings, she’s not a politician; she’s a woman of the people. I’ve been following her activities. I’ve never spoken to her, never met her, but I’m convinced that that’s the kind of politician people should aspire to be,” Justice Atuguba said.
He admitted that he was puzzled by the fact that Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings had not been included in the current list of ministerial appointees.
Justice Atuguba jokingly expressed the hope that his public endorsement would not inadvertently affect her prospects of receiving a ministerial appointment.
“Up till now, I don’t know why she’s not yet a minister. I hope by saying that I’ve not destroyed her chances,” he remarked, drawing laughter from the audience.
The retired judge also noted that he had occasionally seen social media posts incorrectly announcing Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings as a Deputy Minister of Health, adding that he initially believed the reports because he considered her capable of serving in such a role.
Reflecting on her qualities, Justice Atuguba questioned why someone he considers principled and dedicated had not yet been entrusted with ministerial responsibility.
“Such a woman of principle, of dedication, of integrity—why not?” he asked.
His comments have added to public discussions about the composition of President Mahama’s ministerial team and the possible future role of Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, who has represented the Korle Klottey Constituency in Parliament since 2017 and is widely recognised for her work in healthcare advocacy, community development and public service.
Justice Atuguba’s remarks were among several observations he made during the memorial lecture, where he also shared his views on Ghana’s democratic governance, Parliament and constitutional development.
By 1960news.com
