Washington DC: Ghana's Embassy in Washington DC resumed full operations on Thursday with an impressive start, issuing over 800 visas on the first day alone. The development, Mr Samuel Okudjeto Ablakwa, Minister of Foreign Affairs, has hailed as a sign of renewed efficiency and professionalism at the mission as he announced in a social media post.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Ablakwa applauded the newly deployed team of seasoned diplomats for what he called a remarkable start in executing a sweeping overhaul of the embassy's operations, following recent institutional challenges. 'This is a testament that Ghanaian diplomats excel when provided with the right ecosystem and leadership,' Mr. Ablakwa stated. He added that the embassy's reopening marked a significant milestone in ongoing reforms across Ghana's foreign missions.
The Washington DC mission had recently been the subject of internal audits, resulting in a complete change in leadership and the deployment of some of the Ministry's most experienced diplomats. The Minister noted that the changes formed part of a broader 'patriotic consequential reset agenda' aimed at restoring the image and credibility of Ghana's diplomatic outposts.
Responding to allegations that the reforms were being used to create political job opportunities, Mr. Ablakwa firmly refuted such claims. 'There have been no new recruitments to replace lost jobs at our Washington embassy,' he clarified, stating that 'we have an adequate stock of distinguished and astute diplomats to lead ongoing reforms. This cannot be reduced to 'jobs for the boys.''
He further revealed that an unauthorized and opaque agreement allegedly signed in 2023 between a former embassy official, Fred Kwarteng, and a top embassy staff member has been nullified. Mr. Ablakwa described the deal as illegal and indicated that the matter, along with details of frozen accounts and other remedial actions, would be fully disclosed in an upcoming address to Parliament.
The Minister's firm stance and swift actions have been met with widespread public support, particularly on social media, where many commended him for his commitment to institutional integrity and his no-nonsense approach to diplomacy. Mr Ibrahim Yakubu on Facebook said: 'Contrary to baseless criticism, your action has clearly restored public confidence at the embassy.' 'Great, I'm really happy with the enthusiasm and passion you put to your work. God bless and protect you!' Mr Emmanuel Baba Zotbah stated.
