The United States government has implemented immediate visa restrictions targeting individuals who might undermine democratic processes in Ghana, as the West African nation approaches its December 2024 presidential and parliamentary elections.
U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken announced the policy on Monday, emphasizing America’s commitment to Ghana’s democratic future.
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“The United States is committed to supporting and advancing democracy in Ghana and around the world. This visa restriction policy would apply only to specific individuals who undermine democracy and is not directed at the Ghanaian people nor the Government of Ghana,” Blinken stated.
The policy draws its legal foundation from Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, which empowers the Department of State to deny visas to individuals suspected of undermining democratic processes. This includes those involved in electoral manipulation, using violence for intimidation, or restricting political freedoms.
Highlighting Ghana’s democratic achievements, Blinken noted: “Ghana has achieved three decades of democratic elections and the peaceful transfer of power between parties – a record to be proud of and a model to cherish. The United States’ readiness to impose visa restrictions if circumstances warrant is an example of our support for the aspirations of all Ghanaians for a peaceful, transparent, and credible electoral process that reflects the will of the people.”
The policy specifically targets activities such as:
Electoral manipulation or rigging, using violence to intimidate voters, restricting freedoms of association and peaceful assembly, intimidating political party representatives, suppressing media freedom and civil society voices, any other actions aimed at improperly influencing election outcomes
Notably, the restrictions may extend to family members of individuals found to be undermining democratic processes.
The policy specifically states: “Persons who undermine democracy in Ghana – including in the lead-up to, during, and following Ghana’s 2024 elections may be found to be ineligible for visas under this policy.”
