Bernard Ahiafor Denies Bribery Allegations Against Appointments Committee
First Deputy Speaker and Appointments Committee Chairperson Bernard Ahiafor has vehemently denied claims that members of the committee solicit bribes from ministerial nominees before their vetting.
The accusations were made by activist Oliver Barker Vormawor, who alleged that the committee engaged in corrupt practices and challenged Mr. Ahiafor to submit to an oral inquiry to clear his name.
Ahiafor Rejects Allegations, Calls for Evidence
Speaking ahead of the vetting of Defence Minister-designate Dr. Omane Boamah on January 28, Mr. Ahiafor described the allegations as baseless and reaffirmed the integrity of the committee.
“I am ever ready to submit myself to an oral inquiry. We need to put an end to these baseless accusations,” he stated.
In a bold move, Mr. Ahiafor instructed the clerk of the committee to formally invite Vormawor to appear before the committee and present evidence to substantiate his claims.
Setting the Record Straight
The Chairman emphasized the commitment of the Appointments Committee to transparency and ethical standards. “I want to place on record that neither I nor any member of the committee demands money from nominees before vetting or approval,” he asserted.
Call for Accountability
By inviting his accuser to provide proof, Mr. Ahiafor seeks to uphold the integrity of parliamentary processes and dispel any doubts surrounding the vetting procedures. His firm stance sends a strong message about the need for accountability and fairness in Ghana’s democratic processes.
This incident underscores the importance of maintaining public confidence in Parliament’s role in scrutinizing nominees and ensuring governance transparency.