The National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary candidate for Ayawaso West Wuogon, John Dumelo has apologised for accusing the Member of Parliament (MP) for the area, Lydia Alhassan, of killing her husband to gain power.
Dumelo made this controversial remark during a constituency debate, suggesting that Madam Alhassan needed to answer questions regarding her husband’s death.
His comment was triggered by some NPP supporters chanting the popular V8 saga when he was making his submission.
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“I want to say something, I can hear their supporters mentioning V8 repeatedly. If that is the case, it is also fair to say that maybe Lydia is the one who killed her husband to become MP.
“If they want to go that tangent, I can also go that same tangent because this time around, it’s boot for boot. You cannot decide to be a bloody widow to be a Member of Parliament,” Dumelo retorted.
His comments, which were intended as a counterattack, left many Ghanaians and constituents upset, prompting widespread criticism for using such a sensitive issue for political gain.
In a Facebook post, John Dumelo said, “I apologize and unreservedly retract my previous comments. I extend my sincere and unconditional apologies to Hon. Lydia Alhassan for my remarks during the Media General public engagement (Community Manifesto) concerning the death of her husband.
“To everyone who knows me, both in my private life and political activities, it is clear that those statements do not reflect my values or what I stand for. My comments were in response to personal attacks by supporters of the honourable minister, including false allegations regarding my mother’s death. However, I recognize that my reaction was inappropriate,” he added.
He reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the development and progress of the constituency, ensuring that he will work tirelessly to deliver positive change and improvement to the community.