The Press Attaché at the United States Embassy in Ghana, Matthew Asada, has dismissed suggestions that the newly instituted visa restriction policy is a response to concerns about Ghana’s upcoming elections.
In an appearance on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show, Mr. Asada clarified that the policy is a preventive measure intended to support democratic governance and reinforce the U.S.’s commitment to democracy in Ghana and worldwide.
When asked directly whether the new policy reflected U.S. concerns about potential threats to Ghana’s democratic process in the upcoming general elections, Mr. Asada dispelled any such notions.
“No, by no means,” he stated.
“This is something that the United States is applying as a tool as part of our foreign policy in countries like Ghana and others, but it’s not a reflection of a heightened concern about this election. Rather, it is a preventive and good governance measure to show that we support the democratic aspirations of the Ghanaian people.”
On Monday, the U.S. announced a new visa restriction policy for individuals undermining democracy in Ghana.
According to a press release from Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken, the “United States is committed to supporting and advancing democracy in Ghana and around the world.”
The communiqué explained that the visa restriction policy would apply only to specific individuals who undermine democracy and is not directed at the Ghanaian people or the Government of Ghana.
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