Hon. Bernard Ahiafor, the First Deputy Speaker of Parliament and Chairman of the Vetting Committee, has expressed concern over recurring allegations of corruption leveled against members of the Appointments Committee during every vetting cycle by political activist Oliver Barker-Vormawor.
He noted that these accusations have become a persistent issue, casting a shadow over the committee’s work and potentially undermining public confidence in the vetting process.
Ahiafor emphasized the need to address such perceptions and uphold the integrity of the committee, ensuring that its work remains transparent, accountable, and focused on its mandate of scrutinizing nominees for public office.
“Our attention has been drawn to a media statement by Mr. Oliver Baker Vormawor, in which he alleges the following: That the majority members of the Appointments Committee demand money before approving nominees and that the Chairman must submit himself to order”.
Hon. Bernard Ahiafor
Hon. Ahiafor further highlighted allegations made by Barker-Vormawor, who claimed that all members of the Appointments Committee demand and accept money from nominees before their vetting and subsequent approval.
He expressed concern about the gravity of such accusations, noting that they not only tarnish the reputation of the committee but also undermine public trust in the parliamentary vetting process.
Ahiafor emphasized the need for thorough investigations into such claims to preserve the integrity of the committee’s work and ensure that its processes remain transparent, fair, and free from any form of impropriety.
He expressed deep disappointment over the fact that such serious allegations would be leveled against the Appointments Committee.
According to him, such claims not only cast a shadow over the integrity and credibility of the committee but also unfairly tarnish the reputation of its members, many of whom are committed to upholding their responsibilities with the highest ethical standards.
The Akatsi South MP stressed the importance of protecting the dignity of the committee and ensuring that public confidence in its work is not eroded by unsubstantiated accusations.
Commitment to Transparency Amid Corruption Allegations
Furthermore, Hon. Bernard Ahiafor firmly stated his readiness to submit himself to any form of scrutiny to address the allegations of corruption leveled against the Appointments Committee.
He stressed his commitment to transparency and accountability, emphasizing that he has nothing to hide in this regard.
He categorically denied the claims, asserting that neither he, as Chairman of the Vetting Committee, nor any of its members demand or accept money from nominees in exchange for vetting or approving them.
Hon. Ahiafor highlighted the integrity and professionalism with which the committee conducts its work and reiterated his commitment to upholding the values of fairness and impartiality in the vetting process.
“To address these serious allegations, I am directing the Clerk of the Committee to invite Mr. Oliver Baker Vomawo to appear before the committee tomorrow at 10:00 AM to provide evidence to substantiate his claims.
“Specifically, he must present proof that I, as Chairman, or any member of the Vetting Committee has engaged in such acts”.
Hon. Bernard Ahiafor
Hon. Ahiafor issued a stern warning, stating that if Barker-Vormawor fails to honor the invitation to appear before the committee, the Appointments Committee will exercise its constitutional and parliamentary authority to address the matter.
He explained that the committee is prepared to invoke its powers as stipulated under Article 103 of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana, which grants parliamentary committees the authority to investigate matters and summon individuals.
Additionally, the committee will rely on Standing Order 134 of Parliament to ensure compliance and accountability. “Is so direct”.
Ahiafor emphasized that the committee takes such allegations seriously and is determined to use every available legal avenue to protect its integrity and ensure transparency in its operations.
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