Businessman tried to influence ministerial approval process – Mahama Ayariga claims
Mahama Ayariga, the majority leader in parliament, disclosed that a businessman recently tried to raise money to help with the approval process of a ministerial nominee, despite the fact that such contributions were not necessary.
Speaking on Tuesday, January 28 on Joy News’ PM Express, the Bawku Central MP described the interaction, saying that the Appointments Committee does not ask nominees for money and encouraging anyone who has proof of bribery to come forward.
“I actually met somebody who operates in a sector, and the person said, ‘Oh, our minister is being considered this week, so we want to go and help him.’ And I said, ‘Has the sector minister asked you to come and help him?’ He said, ‘No, no, we just want to come together and help him,’” Mr Ayariga narrated.
He described how he quickly put an end to the notion, cautioning the person that such mobilization was needless and would not be tolerated.
“I told the person, ‘I don’t think there’s a need for you and people in your sector to mobilise money that you are going to help your minister, because we won’t even accept it.’” he said in a report by myjoyonline.com.
His disclosure follows accusations made by activist and attorney Oliver Barker-Vormawor that parliamentary consent was being sought in exchange for bribery from cabinet nominees.
Mr. Ayariga rejected the allegations and urged Barker-Vormawor to present evidence.
“I had wind of what he said, and then the chairman reached out. I said, ‘Call him, let him come. And if he has anything and he can substantiate it, we need to deal with it openly and transparently,’” he added.
