Following the presidential directive on diplomatic and service passports, as part of efforts to ensure accountability and streamline the management of diplomatic travel documents, over 380 diplomatic passports are said to have been returned.
The directive, signed by Dr. Callistus Mahama, Secretary to President John Dramani Mahama, mandated the return of all diplomatic and service passports issued under the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration. This measure officially concluded on Friday, January 24, 2025, with most returns recorded by the preceding day, January 23.
This initiative is said to demonstrate the government‘s commitment to ensuring that diplomatic passports, which grant privileges like expedited customs clearance and tax exemptions in host countries, are used solely for official state representation abroad.
Reports of potential misuse, including possession of these passports by individuals no longer serving in official capacities, prompted the recall, highlighting the risks such mismanagement could pose to national security and international relations.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reinforced its dedication to implementing stricter protocols to prevent future misuse of these critical travel documents.
Source: The Ghana Times
