Oliver Barker-Vormawor, lawyer and social activist, has strongly defended his proposal for Joyce Bawah Mogtari as Foreign Minister, rejecting suggestions that she should be placed closer to President-elect John Mahama in roles like Chief of Staff or Secretary.
He emphasized that Joyce has been a standout figure for the NDC during the campaign, highlighting her accomplishments as an accomplished lawyer and former deputy minister, known for her resilience.
Barker-Vormawor noted that some still view her merely as an extension of John Mahama, but stressed that she is a force in her own right and would excel as Foreign Minister.
Drawing from his experience as a former foreign service officer, he expressed confidence in her success in the role.
“ I have received a lot of feedback privately on the “appointments” I have been making on my socials. Overwhelmingly, the feedback has been positive; with many people of repute responding quite well to them.
“There has also been a few holdbacks. Disappointed, and even angry reactions. We are a country where everything is shrouded in secrecy, scheming, and even animosity. Appointments are treated as a matter of life and death. Enemies get made”.
Oliver Barker-Vormawor
He explained that appointments are crucial because they can open doors to life-changing opportunities and generational wealth.
According to him, denying someone such an opportunity can negatively impact both the individual and their family for years.
Barker-Vormawor stated that it did not surprise him when, upon seeing his proposal for someone else as Chief of Staff, people assumed he had animosity towards Julius Debrah.
However, he emphasized that his “appointments” are meant to demystify the process and lighten the intense atmosphere. “It’s not a matter of life and death, Charley, you will live with or without an appointment” he added.
He stated that people are free to speculate about his suggestions for potential appointments under John Mahama, stressing that are entitled to form opinions, even if those opinions are trivial.
However, Barker-Vormawor emphasized that these views hold no weight beyond being a topic of conversation.
He clarified that he is not involved in the NDC’s appointment process, and none of the opinions expressed here are binding.
Barker-Vormawor Defends Appointment Proposals
Furthermore, Oliver Barker-Vormawor argued that those who claim his “appointments” proposals are putting pressure on the President-elect are mistaken.
He explained that this platform serves as a sounding board for everyone, providing insight into public opinions and perceptions of potential leaders.
He added that for those seeking appointments, the best course of action is to approach the right channels and lobby accordingly.
“But here is a perspective you won’t hear. It is okay to reject an appointment! It is okay to say, you know what, I can serve the Republic in many other ways. It is okay, to count yourselves out. That is honorable.
“But if you do accept an appointment. Listen up!! We will not allow you to become glorified thieves”.
Oliver Barker-Vormawor
He warned that those determined to prevent John Mahama from having the opportunity to build a legacy of meaningful transformation should be prepared for the consequences.
Barker-Vormawor emphasized that Ghanaians will no longer tolerate scandals like the bus branding fiasco or the failed promises of sky trains.
He indicated that the days of squandering the nation’s future, such as with the Agyapa deal, are over.
According to him, this represents the old order—an outdated and corrupt system that will face harsh consequences from the people.
Vormawor stressed that the citizenry, tired of broken promises and mismanagement, will no longer accept such practices.
He maintained that the people will hold those responsible accountable, ensuring that such actions are not repeated. “John must succeed this time for we all as Ghanaians whether we like the NDC or not”.
READ ALSO: Government Faces Refinancing Risk as November T-Bills Auction Misses Target
