Prominent activist and #FixTheCountry convenor, Oliver Barker-Vormawor, has confirmed that he will honour an invitation to appear before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Wednesday.
This follows allegations he made that some committee members have been soliciting bribes from ministerial nominees in exchange for approval.
In a tweet shared on Tuesday, Barker-Vormawor stated: “This is how a democracy improves. I look forward to appearing before the Appointments Committee tomorrow. Thank you.”
The activist’s allegations have sparked widespread debate, with many calling for accountability and transparency in Ghana’s legislative processes.
His decision to engage with the committee has been met with mixed reactions from the public and political stakeholders.
In response to the allegations, the Chairman of the Appointments Committee, Bernard Ahiafor, categorically denied any wrongdoing.
Speaking on Tuesday, January 28, he said: “Neither I nor any member of this committee has engaged in such practices.” The Minority members of the committee have also rejected the claims, describing them as unfounded and an attack on their integrity.
Despite the denials, the issue has gained significant traction, with political commentators noting that the proceedings could serve as a critical test of transparency within Parliament.
Public reactions: Support, scepticism, and criticism
Barker-Vormawor’s tweet about his appearance before the committee has drawn a wave of reactions on social media, reflecting a mix of support, scepticism, and criticism.
Supporters have commended him for his boldness and commitment to exposing corruption. One user wrote: “For God and country. We’ll be there no matter what.” Another user added: “This is an opportunity to strengthen democracy, and we hope the truth will prevail.”
However, others have expressed doubt about his claims, urging him to provide substantial evidence to back his allegations. A comment read: “I hope you are able to substantiate those allegations, man. All the best. You should be careful about what you type on your wall.”
Critics have also accused Barker-Vormawor of seeking attention and unnecessarily stirring controversy. A user remarked: “You just like creating unnecessary attention. Ghana is far behind, and the government needs to work to better the lives of Ghanaians. Know when to seek attention.”
Another user wrote: “Please carry the evidence. Fixing Ghana must go beyond allegations to evidence. We do not want to hear that the issue was settled in private but in public view for us all to see.”
The allegations have further intensified partisan tensions, with some political observers interpreting Barker-Vormawor’s claims as part of a broader strategy to discredit Parliament’s processes.
A post from a user identified as “Political Gossip Gh” read: “Credit to the NPP—they are outsmarting the NDC in terms of tactics and strategy. Oliver accused the whole committee; however, the NPP has skillfully pinned it on the Chairman of the committee, and so far, that’s sticking.”
Such reactions highlight the polarisation of public discourse surrounding the matter, with critics calling for evidence-based discussions and supporters urging Parliament to conduct a fair and transparent hearing.
Barker-Vormawor is expected to appear before the Appointments Committee tomorrow, where he will have the opportunity to substantiate his allegations.
The hearing is likely to draw significant public and media attention, with many Ghanaians hoping it will set a precedent for holding Parliamentarians accountable.
