Ghana Finds Solutions to Distribute 75000 Unclaimed Passports | Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced plans to implement a courier system aimed at resolving the backlog of over 75,000 unclaimed passports. During an interview on The KeyPoints on February 8, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, revealed that an immediate audit will be conducted to identify applicants and ensure that unclaimed passports are delivered to their rightful owners.
Ablakwa stated, “We will roll out a courier system so that applicants can receive their passports wherever they are. There must be a clear indication of who the applicants are, and if addresses are available, we will call them.” He also highlighted that digitization and operational reforms at the passport office would improve efficiency and expedite processing times.
In addition, the Minister announced intentions to review the issuance system for diplomatic passports, aiming to curb misuse and enhance the country’s international reputation. He expressed concern regarding current practices, emphasizing that diplomatic passports should be restricted to government officials and foreign service personnel.
“There has been abuse. Diplomatic passports should not just be available to anyone. We need to streamline the process to protect our national security and international image,” Ablakwa stated, referencing existing laws such as NLC Decree 155 that define eligibility for diplomatic passports.
He reaffirmed the importance of maintaining the credibility of Ghanaian passports, indicating that it affects how citizens are treated at embassies and airports. Ablakwa assured Ghanaians that a thorough review would be undertaken to ensure that only qualified individuals receive diplomatic passports.
Ghana Finds Solutions to Distribute 75000 Unclaimed Passports (Source: 3News)
