President Mahama Orders Recall of Diplomatic and Service Passports for Re-Issuance.

 

President John Dramani Mahama has issued a directive to the Minister of Foreign Affairs to recall all Diplomatic and Service passports by January 24, 2025. The move is aimed at ensuring that these special categories of passports are only held by individuals who are rightfully eligible under the law.

This announcement forms part of President Mahama’s commitment to uphold the integrity of Ghana’s passport issuance system. It follows reports of misuse and unauthorized possession of Diplomatic and Service passports, which are intended for government officials and individuals representing the country in official capacities.

The directive is expected to streamline the process of issuing Diplomatic and Service passports and prevent abuse of these privileged travel documents. The re-issuance process will involve a thorough review of current holders to confirm their eligibility.

Sources at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs indicate that individuals who fail to return their Diplomatic or Service passports by the stated deadline will face penalties, including potential invalidation of their documents.

President Mahama has emphasized his administration’s commitment to promoting transparency and accountability in all government processes. This passport recall initiative is part of broader efforts to restore public trust in Ghana’s administrative systems and enhance the country’s international reputation.

In a brief statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs assured the public that the re-issuance process will be conducted in a fair and efficient manner, ensuring that eligible holders of Diplomatic and Service passports receive their new documents promptly.

The directive has been met with mixed reactions from the public. While some have lauded the initiative as a step toward promoting accountability, others have expressed concerns about the potential inconvenience it might cause to current passport holders.

Stakeholders have called on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to ensure clear communication and smooth coordination during the recall and re-issuance process.

All holders of Diplomatic and Service passports are advised to contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs immediately to begin the re-issuance process. The Ministry is expected to release additional guidelines in the coming days to facilitate the exercise.