Accra, Ghana – On January 14, 2025, the Office of the President, in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, officially initiated a process to recall all Diplomatic and Service Passports that the previous administration issued. The decision is part of the current government’s commitment to ensuring the proper use and management of official travel documents in alignment with both national and international standards.
The recall aims to address concerns over potential misuse of these passports and to safeguard the integrity of Ghana’s diplomatic operations. The government believes that this measure will contribute significantly to maintaining the credibility and efficiency of the country’s passport system, ensuring that all official documents are used responsibly and within the framework of eligibility criteria.
Key Steps in the Recall Process
- Public Notice: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been tasked with issuing a public notice to all holders of Diplomatic and Service Passports that were issued under the previous administration. The notice will instruct them to return these documents to the Ministry for a thorough review and re-issuance, where applicable.
- Compliance Deadline: A strict deadline of January 24, 2025, has been set for the return of the passports. All individuals who hold these passports are expected to comply with this deadline, after which further actions may be taken for non-compliance.
- Verification Process: Upon receipt of the returned passports, the Ministry will conduct a comprehensive verification process to ensure that each document aligns with the current eligibility criteria for issuing Diplomatic and Service Passports. This review will help confirm that all passports in circulation meet the necessary standards of use.
Aimed at Restoring Integrity
Dr. Callistus Mahama, Secretary to the President, emphasized the importance of this recall in maintaining the credibility of Ghana’s diplomatic engagements. “The recall is part of our broader efforts to uphold transparency, ensure accountability, and prevent any potential misuse of these important travel documents,” Mahama stated.
He further urged all concerned individuals to cooperate with the Ministry and promptly return their passports for verification. The Ministry has assured that the process will be conducted with efficiency and thoroughness to ensure minimal disruption. 
Impact on Ghana’s Diplomatic Relations
The decision is expected to strengthen Ghana’s diplomatic relations by ensuring that only eligible individuals hold Diplomatic and Service Passports, thus avoiding potential misuse or embarrassment for the nation. The government also indicated that the re-issuance of these passports will be based on current diplomatic guidelines, ensuring that those who hold such documents are fit to represent the country on the international stage.
The recall is not only a preventive measure but also part of an ongoing effort to modernize and streamline Ghana’s passport system to enhance its security and global reputation.
What Happens Next?
Once the passports are returned and verified, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will begin the process of re-issuing the travel documents to qualified individuals. Those who meet the eligibility criteria will receive their newly issued Diplomatic or Service Passports promptly, ensuring that they can continue with their international duties without hindrance.
Individuals who fail to return their passports by the specified deadline may face further consequences, as the Ministry intends to enforce compliance to maintain the integrity of Ghana’s diplomatic processes.
Contact and Assistance
For individuals seeking further clarification on the recall process, or those in need of assistance in returning their passports, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has made provisions to facilitate the process. Dr. Mahama encouraged those affected to contact the Ministry directly for support and guidance throughout the recall.
Conclusion
This initiative underscores the Ghanaian government’s dedication to ensuring transparency, accountability, and the proper management of its diplomatic resources. With the deadline for compliance set for January 24, 2025, the government urges all individuals holding these passports to act promptly, contributing to a more secure and credible diplomatic system in Ghana.
