Chairman of Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee, Andy Appiah-Kubi, has backed the U.S.-imposed visa restrictions targeting individuals attempting to disrupt Ghana’s electoral process ahead of the December elections.
The U.S. Embassy in Ghana announced the visa restrictions, which aim to deter offenses like voter intimidation, interference, and coercive tactics during the election period.
The restrictions will also extend to close family members of those found guilty, signaling a broader commitment to ensuring electoral integrity.
Speaking to journalists on Tuesday, October 29, Mr. Appiah-Kubi expressed strong support for the U.S. decision, highlighting the importance of Ghana’s political actors respecting democratic norms and processes.
He emphasized the necessity of free, fair, and transparent elections, noting that any attempts to manipulate the process would not only threaten Ghana’s democracy but also damage the nation’s reputation globally.
Mr. Appiah-Kubi further urged political leaders and their supporters to act responsibly during the election period, stressing that adherence to democratic principles is crucial for Ghana’s stability and progress.
“No country wants to welcome criminals. Personally, I agree with them because let’s all live up to our constitutional requirements, follow a democratic path and make sure the country survives whatever event the country undertakes.
“So I agree with them that they should not open their doors to people who cause confusion somewhere and want to run from it into a safe area.
“So it is implied and they have just voiced it out as a warning to all of us, particularly those of us in the political space.”
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