The US Department of State has implemented a new visa restriction policy aimed at those who undermine democratic processes ahead of Ghana’s December 7, 2024, presidential and parliamentary elections.
Those who commit acts that compromise Ghana’s democratic integrity will not be granted U.S. visas under this policy, which was announced on Monday, October 28.
According to Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, the strategy is not aimed at the Ghanaian government or people as a whole, but rather targets particular individuals.
The U.S. statement highlighted Ghana’s democratic achievements, noting its three decades of peaceful power transitions.
The United States hopes to further demonstrate its support for Ghanaians’ desires for an impartial, peaceful, and open election process by enforcing these visa restrictions.
Washington’s commitment to promoting democratic norms globally and thwarting any attempts at violence or manipulation in Ghana’s electoral process is exemplified by this policy.
Actions meant to sabotage the electoral process, use violence, threaten voters or political representatives, restrict the right to free association or assembly, or inappropriately influence the outcome of an election are all covered by the visa restriction policy.
Furthermore, some of their relatives can also be subject to visa limitations. With a strong warning that visa restrictions may be applied to anyone discovered harming Ghanaian democracy before, during, or after the 2024 elections, the United States remains steadfast in its commitment to preserve democratic integrity.
Source: Citinewsroom