Barker-Vormawor summoned before appointments committee over bribery allegations

Renowned activist, Oliver Barker-Vormawor has been summoned to appear before Parliament’s Appointments Committee to substantiate allegations of bribery against its members.

Barker-Vormawor recently accused the committee of demanding money from ministerial nominees in exchange for their approval, a claim the committee has vehemently denied.

The Chairman of the Appointments Committee, Bernard Ahiafor, dismissed the accusations during a press briefing on Tuesday, January 28, labeling them as baseless and unfounded.

He maintained that neither he nor any member of the committee had engaged in such unethical practices.

“These are serious allegations that attack the integrity of the Appointments Committee,” Mr. Ahiafor stated. “I am directing the Clerk to the Committee to invite Mr. Barker-Vormawor to appear before us tomorrow [Wednesday] to substantiate his claims. Failure to provide evidence will result in the application of the necessary legal measures.”

The summons follows mounting pressure from some members of the committee, particularly those in the minority New Patriotic Party (NPP), who have called for a temporary suspension of vetting until the matter is resolved.

“This is a critical moment for the integrity of the committee and the democratic processes it upholds,” a minority member said.

Barker-Vormawor is expected to meet with the committee on Wednesday, January 29, where he will be required to present evidence to support his allegations.

Chairman Ahiafor has reiterated the need to protect the reputation of the Appointments Committee and preserve public confidence in its work.

"The processes of this committee are transparent and guided by rules. We will not allow baseless allegations to undermine our integrity," he added.

The outcome of the session could have significant implications for both the committee and the activist, particularly if the allegations are proven—or disproven.

Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith