A Ghanaian international relations expert, Dr. Vladimir Antwi-Danso, has expressed support for the withdrawal of diplomatic and service passports from individuals who do not deserve them.
In an interview on Morning Starr with Naa Dedei Tettey, Dr. Antwi-Danso, emphasized the need for to revoke some of the passports.
“I am not opposed to the withdrawal of diplomatic and service passports, as some individuals holding them are undeserving,” Dr. Antwi-Danso stated.
His comments come amid a broader discussion on the issuance and revocation of diplomatic passports in Ghana.
The move to withdraw these passports is seen as an effort to restore integrity and ensure that only deserving individuals hold these privileged documents.
Background
Diplomatic passports are specialized travel documents issued to diplomats, government officials, and their families to facilitate international travel for official business.
These passports provide various privileges, including streamlined visa processes, exemptions from certain fees, and access to dedicated airport queues.
The President’s request for bearers to return their diplomatic passports likely stems from concerns about misuse or unauthorized holders. Diplomatic passports are typically issued to high-ranking government officials, ambassadors, and their immediate family members.
However, some countries have been known to issue these passports to individuals who are not entitled to them, such as former government officials or individuals with close ties to the government.
It’s worth noting that diplomatic passports can be revoked or invalidated if the holder is no longer serving in a diplomatic capacity or if the passport was obtained fraudulently.
The President’s request for bearers to return their diplomatic passports may be a step towards ensuring that these passports are used only for their intended purpose.
