The United States has announced a new visa restriction policy targeting Ghanaians deemed responsible for actions undermining democracy, ahead of Ghana’s upcoming elections on 7 December 2024.

In a statement issued by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and published on the State Department’s website, the US emphasised its commitment to supporting democratic processes globally and highlighted Ghana’s democratic achievements. “Ghana has achieved three decades of democratic elections and peaceful transfers of power, a model to cherish,” the statement said. The directive stresses that the new policy targets specific individuals and is not aimed at the general Ghanaian population or the government itself.

This visa restriction policy, enacted under Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, authorises the US to deny visas to those believed to be complicit in undermining Ghana’s democracy. The criteria for visa restrictions include attempts to manipulate or rig the electoral process, the use of violence to prevent or intimidate citizens from exercising their rights, and any actions to coerce political party representatives, voters, or civil society members.

The policy may also affect close family members of individuals found to be obstructing the democratic process. The US clarified that the measure is intended to protect the integrity of Ghana’s electoral process, ensuring a transparent, peaceful, and credible election that reflects the will of Ghanaian voters.

Source:TheDotNews