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The National Democratic Congress (NDC) Member of Parliament for Kumbungu Constituency, Ras Mubarak is not happy about the announcement made by the USA which requires that members of parliaments and former presidents to apply for their visas in person.
The US Embassy had earlier explained that, these laws were not new and had already existed. Despite this, the MP is still not satisfied with the explanation and as such wants the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Shirley Ayorkor Botchway to appear before parliament to answer some questions.
The MP also wants the US Embassy to review the policy. “It’s not surprising because we have over glorified them and given them a sense of self-importance about their country, so they feel they can disrespect us anyhow”, he fumed. He further described the USA Visa policy as “disrespectful to Ghana.”
Former presidents won’t queue for visas- US Embassy
This comes shortly after a clarification issued by the Press Attaché of the US Embassy in Ghana, corrected indications that protocol arrangements for high-level state officials on personal visits had changed.
But speaking to Citi News, Sarah Stealy explained that diplomatic courtesies would still be extended to Ghana’s Former Presidents who embark on personal visits.
“Under US law, anybody seeking a non immigrant visa to travel to the United States need to appear in person for an interview with the Consular Officer.”
This directive follows a similar position taken by the UK High Commission on the issuance of visas for personal visits after some four Members of Parliament were alleged to have engaged in visa fraud.
The United States Embassy in Ghana has since then released a statement explaining that the notification on visa allocations to government officials, including MPs and former Presidents visiting the US unofficially is in accordance with already existing US law.
