US announces visa restrictions on individuals who undermine Ghana’s democracy

James Amo Jr

Accra, October 28, GNA – The United States has announced a new visa restriction policy targeting individuals involved in activities that undermine the democratic process in Ghana.

The move, aimed at supporting democratic governance in Ghana, was announced in a press statement by US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken on Monday, October 28, 2024.

The visa restrictions policy, which is due to take effect before Ghana’s December 7 presidential and parliamentary elections, will target specific individuals who threaten Ghana’s democratic principles.

The restrictions apply to actions taken before, during and after the 2024 Ghana elections.

According to Mr. Blinken, this policy is not directed against the people or the government of Ghana, but against individuals who may be responsible for electoral manipulation, violence, intimidation or any action that undermines the transparency and credibility of the electoral process.

“Ghana has achieved three decades of democratic elections and peaceful transfer of power between parties, a record to be proud of and an example to be cherished,” the statement said.

Mr. Blinken said: “The willingness of the United States 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 State Department said the policy is consistent with Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the US Immigration and Nationality Act, which allows for visa restrictions on individuals deemed involved or complicit in subverting democracy. processes.

This includes “manipulation or falsification of the electoral process; use of violence to intimidate, coerce or prevent people from exercising their rights to freedom of association and peaceful assembly; using measures aimed at intimidating, coercing or preventing representatives of political parties, voters, members of civil society or mass media from expressing or disseminating their views; or engaging in any other activity aimed at improperly influencing the conduct or outcome of elections.”

The State Department clarified that family members of individuals found to be accomplices may also face visa restrictions.

“Some family members of such persons may also be subject to these restrictions. Individuals who subvert democracy in Ghana, particularly in the run-up to, during and after the 2024 Ghana elections, may be declared ineligible for visas under this policy.”

GNA