Private legal practitioner Bobby Banson has voiced deep concern over recent allegations that members of Parliament’s Appointments Committee have been accepting money in exchange for vetting ministerial nominees.
This comes after social activist, Oliver Barker-Vormawor, who had previously claimed that some committee members demanded bribes from ministerial nominees.
After appearing before the committee upon the request of the Chairman of the committee, Bernard Ahiafor, Baker-Vormawor, explained that his comments were intended to highlight broader concerns about corruption and transparency, rather than directly accuse the committee.
He susbsequently apologised to Parliament’s Appointments Committee, stressing that his earlier remarks about alleged bribery were not meant to disparage its members.
Speaking on Joy News’ Newsfile programme on Saturday, February 1, Banson strongly condemned such practices, describing them as the “height of misfortune” for Ghana’s democracy if proven true.
His comments come amid growing controversy surrounding the vetting process, with claims that some committee members may have been influenced by financial incentives.
Banson emphasised that such behaviour undermines the integrity of Parliament and damages the democratic process, which is supposed to be rooted in fairness and transparency.
“If indeed parliamentarians are taking money to approve or disapprove ministerial nominees, then it’s the height of misfortune,” he stated.
He stressed that such actions not only betray public trust but also hinder the effective functioning of democratic institutions in Ghana.
Banson called for a thorough investigation into the allegations to ensure accountability and uphold the credibility of the process.
Additionally, he urged Parliament to take decisive steps to address the issue, emphasizing the need for the public to be assured that elected officials are acting in the nation’s best interest rather than being swayed by personal gain. Banson also advocated for greater transparency in the vetting process to restore confidence in the system.
