'Why is Zenator not yet a minister?' – Justice Atuguba quizzes
Retired Supreme Court Justice William Atuguba has questioned why Klottey Korle Member of Parliament, Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, has not been appointed to a ministerial position, describing her as a principled leader with integrity and a strong commitment to public service.
Speaking at the D.F. Annan Memorial Lecture in Parliament, Justice Atuguba said Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings exemplifies the kind of leadership Ghana needs, citing her conduct and dedication to serving the public.
He noted that although he had never met or spoken with the legislator personally, he had closely followed her work and believed she possessed the qualities expected of national leaders.
“Somebody like Zanetor Rawlings, she’s not a politician; she’s a woman of the people. I’ve been following her activities. I don’t know, 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,” he said.
Justice Atuguba said he found it surprising that Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings had not been appointed a minister in President John Dramani Mahama's administration.
“Until now, and that’s why I don’t get involved in politics, I don’t know why she’s not yet a minister. I hope by saying that, I’ve not destroyed her chances,” he stated.
The retired judge also referred to reports on social media suggesting that the Klottey Korle MP had been tipped for a deputy ministerial role, particularly at the Ministry of Health, but argued that she was capable of holding a substantive ministerial portfolio.
“From social media, sometimes they even announce that she can be deputy [minister] of health. I say, oh, she could even be the substantive…why not? Why not?”
Justice Atuguba further commended Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings for what he described as her unwavering principles, dedication and integrity, questioning why those qualities had not yet been recognised with a ministerial appointment.