Barker-Vormawor apologises to Appointments Committee
Activist and lawyer Oliver Barker-Vormawor has issued an apology to the Appointments Committee of Parliament following a controversial social media post that led to allegations of corruption among committee members.
The post, which was widely circulated implied that members of the committee took bribes from ministerial nominees.
Appearing before the committee on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, after being summoned, Barker-Vormawor explained that his post was never intended to tarnish the reputation of the committee or its members.
He clarified that the comments were made in reference to concerns he had heard from others, rather than being directed at specific individuals.
"I want to reiterate my utmost respect for the committee and its important constitutional role in vetting high office nominees," Barker-Vormawor said in his statement. "The post was not meant to accuse anyone of bribery, and I apologise for any misunderstanding or harm caused."
Barker-Vormawor denied these accusations, stating that he had in fact praised the chair for his leadership during the vetting process.
“I have never accused anyone on this committee, nor any member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), of taking money for ministerial vetting,” he clarified. “I have always commended the leadership of the committee and its dignified handling of the process.”
He explained that his original post, which had been edited multiple times, reflected his broader concerns about alleged improper conduct during vetting procedures, but that it was not meant to target any specific committee member.
In his apology, Barker-Vormawor reaffirmed that his post was not intended to disparage the committee. "I deeply regret any confusion caused by my words, and I apologize for the negative impact it may have had on the committee and its members," he said.
He also explained that he had left the post online rather than deleting it, to ensure transparency and provide clarity on the issue. "I wanted the record to remain intact, so that it could be referred to for accuracy," he added.
The committee accepted Barker-Vormawor’s apology and acknowledged the clarification.