Ghana’s Minority Files Motion for Parliamentary Inquiry Over Alleged Diplomatic Passport Sales

Introduction

The Minority Caucus in Ghana’s Parliament has formally filed a motion seeking a comprehensive parliamentary inquiry into the alleged sale of diplomatic and service passports to private individuals. Lawmakers argue that an independent legislative probe is essential to safeguard the integrity of the nation’s travel documents, dismissing assertions that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs can impartially investigate itself.

The Call for Independent Oversight

The controversy surrounds allegations that sensitive national identification materials, specifically diplomatic and service passports, have been improperly transacted. Speaking on the matter, minority representatives emphasized that allowing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to handle the investigation internally creates an unacceptable conflict of interest. They maintain that only a transparent parliamentary inquiry can restore public trust and hold accountable any officials implicated in the breach.

Key Takeaways

• The Minority Caucus has submitted an official parliamentary motion to investigate passport sales.
• Lawmakers rejected a self-probe by the Foreign Affairs Ministry, citing severe conflicts of interest.
• The inquiry aims to address alleged systemic corruption in the issuance of diplomatic and service documents.
• Parliament is expected to debate the motion to determine the framework for the independent investigation.