Social activist and lawyer Oliver Barker-Vormawor has stirred nationwide debate over governance and accountability in Ghana with remarks targeting former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. In a Facebook post on Friday, October 31, 2025, Barker-Vormawor reminded Ghanaians that the former president is not beyond scrutiny, highlighting that his full immunity from prosecution will take effect in just over two years.
Barker-Vormawor wrote, “Akufo-Addo is not off limits to accountability. His full immunity kicks in in just 2 years and 2 months. Time is running out.” The post quickly gained traction online, eliciting mixed reactions from social media users. Supporters praised him for stressing the importance of holding public officials accountable, while critics questioned the timing and appropriateness of raising such issues on social media.
Under Ghana’s 1992 Constitution, former presidents enjoy limited immunity for actions taken during their time in office. Once this period lapses, they can be investigated or face legal action depending on the circumstances. Barker-Vormawor’s statement appears to encourage both the public and relevant institutions to act within this constitutionally defined window before immunity is fully established.
Known for his vocal advocacy on political transparency and anti-corruption, Barker-Vormawor has consistently called for stronger oversight of government actions and accountability for alleged misuse of public funds. His recent comments have added momentum to ongoing discussions about how Ghana can balance justice, impartiality, and legal protections for high-ranking officials.
The debate underscores widespread public interest in governance, the rule of law, and the accountability of leaders. Barker-Vormawor’s intervention has reignited calls for vigilance and timely action by oversight bodies to ensure that constitutional provisions on immunity do not hinder justice.
As Ghana approaches a period in which former leaders’ actions can be fully scrutinized, the conversation around legal accountability and institutional responsibility is expected to intensify, reflecting broader concerns about transparency and the equitable application of the law across all levels of leadership.
Source:
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