Ministry of Foreign Affairs is poised to tackle the backlog of more than 75,000 unclaimed passports by introducing a courier delivery system. Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, confirmed the move during an interview on The KeyPoints on February 8.
The initiative aims to expedite the distribution of these passports by enabling applicants to receive their documents at their designated locations. Mr. Ablakwa noted that an immediate audit would be conducted to identify the applicants, ensuring the passports are delivered directly to their rightful owners. “We will roll out a courier system so that applicants can receive their passports wherever they are,” said the minister, adding that, where possible, the ministry would contact applicants to confirm their addresses.
Alongside the courier system, the ministry is set to implement operational reforms at the passport office, including digitization, to streamline processes and reduce processing times. Ablakwa emphasized the need for greater efficiency to better serve the growing demand for passports.
Mr.Ablakwa also signaled plans for a significant overhaul of the diplomatic passport issuance system, which has been plagued by abuse. Ablakwa expressed concerns that diplomatic passports, currently issued too broadly, should be reserved strictly for government officials and foreign service personnel.
“There has been abuse,” he stated, adding that diplomatic passports should not be available to just anyone. “We need to streamline the process to protect our national security and international image.”
Citing NLC Decree 155, which outlines the eligibility for diplomatic passports, the minister pledged to enforce stricter compliance with these regulations. Ablakwa noted that the credibility of Ghanaian passports, particularly in international forums such as embassies and airports, is directly tied to the country’s reputation. “We must restore their respect,” he concluded.
This review of the diplomatic passport system is expected to significantly impact how Ghana is perceived globally, aiming to reinforce the credibility and security of its official documents.
Source:TheDotNews