The Widows Association in Ayawaso West Wuogon has strongly condemned John Dumelo, the NDC parliamentary candidate, for accusing Lydia Seyram Alhassan of involvement in her late husband’s death.
Dumelo made these controversial comments during a TV3 community engagement event on August 28, alleging that Alhassan was responsible for the death of her husband, Emmanuel Kwabena Kyeremateng Agyarko.
Dumelo’s accusation surfaced after a section of the audience chanted “V8,” referencing a 2017 incident where Dumelo was accused of accepting a state-owned Toyota Land Cruiser as a gift.
In response, Dumelo remarked, “I hear their supporters mentioning V8, and if that is the case, it is also fair to say it is Lydia who killed her husband to become MP.”
In a statement dated August 29, the Widows Association condemned Dumelo’s remarks as “not only unfounded but also deeply offensive to all widows and women across the nation.”
The association expressed disappointment, emphasising that such comments are an affront to the dignity of widows who face significant emotional and societal challenges after losing their spouses.
The association praised Lydia Seyram Alhassan for her resilience and dedication to public service despite her personal tragedy. They highlighted her role as Deputy Majority Chief Whip of the 8th Parliament of the 4th Republic and her impact as a leader, which has served as a source of empowerment for widows.
By condemning Dumelo’s comments, the Widows Association stressed that this incident is not just an attack on Alhassan but on all widows in Ghana.
They noted that such remarks perpetuate the stigma and discrimination widows often endure in society.