US Issues Visa Restrictions Ahead of Ghana Elections

The United States has announced a visa restriction policy targeting individuals in Ghana deemed responsible for undermining democracy, ahead of the upcoming presidential and parliamentary elections on December 7, 2024. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that these restrictions are aimed at specific individuals and are not intended to affect the general Ghanaian populace or government. This measure is part of a broader effort to support democratic processes in Ghana, a country noted for its stable democratic governance. U.S. Ambassador to Ghana, Virginia Palmer, has urged all political stakeholders to sign a peace pact to ensure a violence-free electoral process. The U.S. emphasizes its commitment to safeguarding the electoral integrity and supporting the aspirations of Ghanaians for a credible election. The policy reflects increasing international scrutiny over the political landscape in Ghana as the elections approach.