Ahead of Ghana’s December 7 presidential and parliamentary elections, the U.S. Department of State has introduced a visa restriction policy targeting individuals and their families deemed to be undermining democratic processes and rigging elections in Ghana.
This move underscores the U.S.’s commitment to supporting transparent and fair elections in the country. The policy, announced less than a month before the elections, aims to deter actions that could disrupt Ghana’s democratic environment.
Those identified as responsible for undemocratic actions, whether through violence, voter intimidation, or interference, will face visa restrictions, reinforcing the U.S.’s dedication to upholding democratic standards globally.
The Department of State reiterated that such measures align with its broader mission to promote peace and stability worldwide, particularly in democratic nations like Ghana.
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Statement: US Visa restrictions in Ghana Ahead of Ghana’s Elections
This visa restriction policy is pursuant to Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, and allows the Department of State to implement visa restrictions for individuals believed to be responsible for, or complicit in, undermining democracy in Ghana, including through the manipulation or rigging of the electoral process; the use of violence to intimidate, coerce or prevent people from exercising their rights to freedoms of association and peaceful assembly; the use of measures designed to intimidate, coerce or prevent political party representatives, voters, or members of civil society or the media from voicing or disseminating their views; or engaging in any other activity designed to improperly influence the conduct or outcome of an election.
Certain family members of such persons may also be subject to these restrictions. Persons who undermine democracy in Ghana — including in the lead-up to, during, and following Ghana’s 2024 elections may be found to be ineligible for visas under this policy.
