FLASHBACK: US$38.2 Million Visa Processing Scandal Rocks Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs
In October 2024, a significant controversy engulfed Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, brought to light a purported US$38.2 million visa processing scandal. Ablakwa pointed an accusatory finger at the then Akufo-Addo-led government, alleging that it had entered into a “dubious” visa processing contract during its final period in office, raising serious questions about governance and accountability.
Unpacking the ‘Dubious’ Visa Agreement and its Far-Reaching Concerns
According to the lawmaker’s revelations, which he shared on X, the terms of this new agreement are highly problematic. Ablakwa explicitly stated, “The agreement raises major concerns about data protection, national security, and a crude undermining of key functions of Ghana’s diplomatic missions.” This highlights a profound worry over the handling of sensitive citizen information and the potential compromise of the nation’s security protocols, issues that are particularly salient in the African context where digital infrastructure is rapidly expanding. Furthermore, the contract seemingly bypasses the established roles of Ghana’s diplomatic posts abroad, centralizing a function traditionally managed by state representatives. Crucially, the agreement stipulated that a firm named “Access Citizens” would enjoy absolute exclusivity in visa processing under these new, controversial terms. This arrangement was set to remain active until September 1, 2028, with an alarming provision for an additional five-year renewal, locking in a private entity for a significant duration and limiting future governmental flexibility.
The exposure of this US$38.2 million contract by Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa sparked widespread debate over transparency, the integrity of government processes, and the long-term implications for Ghana’s foreign policy and citizen services. The alleged timing of the agreement, in the twilight weeks of an administration, fueled suspicions of rushed decisions with potentially adverse effects on national interests, particularly concerning critical areas like data security and the sovereignty of diplomatic functions. This incident, originally reported by Ghanaweb.com on October 17, 2024, serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing need for vigilance and robust oversight in public procurement and international agreements within the region.
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