In a touching and reflective statement titled “For Ghana’s Sake,” Osagyefo Mawuse Oliver Barker-Vormawor, Constitutional, Rights & Policy Strategy Advisor at the Democracy Accountability Hub, has called on Ghanaians to prioritize national unity and accountability as the country transitions to a new administration.
Barker-Vormawor, a seasoned Constitutional Activist and outspoken critic of the Akufo-Addo government, detailed the persecution he endured over the past three years, including arrest, torture, and the revocation of a teaching appointment allegedly on the orders of Jubilee House.
“The attacks persist online, amplified by droves of supporters determined to erase my voice. My family and friends have carried this burden with me, often at great personal cost. The strain has been immense”.
Osagyefo Mawuse Oliver Barker-Vormawor, Constitutional, Right & Policy Strategy Advisor at the Democracy Accountability Hub
Despite these challenges, he expressed hope and determination as Ghana welcomes a new President. However, he cautioned against the potential dangers of consolidating power, describing the unprecedented control over Parliament and the surge of popular goodwill for the new government as both a blessing and a threat to democracy.
Healing the Wounds of the Past, a Call for Accountability
Acknowledging the scars left by the previous administration, Barker-Vormawor highlighted the erosion of spaces for dissent, the silencing of activists, and the lingering fear within Ghanaian society.
He underscored the importance of forgiveness, not as a concession but as a necessary step toward fostering accountability and unity.
“We must find the strength to hold this new government accountable. And to do that, I must learn to forgive the NPP. I must learn to forgive them so we can be effective partners in holding the new Government accountable.”
Osagyefo Mawuse Oliver Barker-Vormawor, Constitutional, Right & Policy Strategy Advisor at the Democracy Accountability Hub
Barker-Vormawor, who was also the lead convener for the famous #FixTheCountry Movement urged the new opposition party to play an active role in restoring faith in Ghana’s democracy, emphasising the need to rebuild trust across political divides.
He called for efforts to engage those marginalized during the Akufo-Addo administration, stressing that such bridges are essential for moving the nation forward. “Trust will not come easily, but it must be rebuilt. For Ghana’s sake,” he declared.
In a closing note that resonated with his unyielding commitment to the nation’s democratic ideals, Barker-Vormawor reminded Ghanaians of the collective responsibility to defend the country’s democracy.
“The work ahead will be difficult. But the call to defend our democracy is greater than the pain of the past. Let us commit to that. For Ghana’s sake. This is my prayer.”
Osagyefo Mawuse Oliver Barker-Vormawor, Constitutional, Right & Policy Strategy Advisor at the Democracy Accountability Hub
The statement reflects a broader theme of reconciliation and resilience. It called on Ghanaians to rise above partisanship and work collectively to ensure that the new administration does not repeat the mistakes of its predecessor.
As President John Dramani Mahama and the National Democratic Congress assume power, Oliver Barker-Vormawor underscored the challenges ahead and rallied for a united, accountable, and democratic future.
