President John Dramani Mahama has declared that Ghana will not become a dumping ground for deportees and will not accept individuals with criminal backgrounds.
Speaking at the commissioning of ambassadors and high commissioners at the Presidency, President Mahama assured Ghanaians that the understanding with the United States does not undermine the country’s sovereignty, security or stability.
“Ghana will not, and I repeat, will not become a dumping ground for deportees, nor will we accept individuals with criminal backgrounds. The understanding with the United States is limited, carefully vetted, and aligned with ECOWAS protocols,” he stated.
The President explained that the agreement reflects Ghana’s Pan-African commitment to regional cooperation while safeguarding the country’s dignity and sovereignty.
“It reflects Ghana’s Pan-African commitment to regional cooperation while safeguarding our dignity and sovereignty,” he explained.
President Mahama made these comments while addressing concerns about Ghana’s negotiations with the US that led to the complete reversal of visa restrictions. Ghana became the only country to achieve this under the Trump administration.
He urged the newly commissioned envoys to share this clarity whenever questions arise about the agreement.
“I urge you as envoys to share this clarity whenever questions arise. Diplomacy involves more than just negotiation. It also encompasses managing perceptions and safeguarding your nation’s reputation,” he noted.
The President said one of the key points in the negotiation with US authorities was Ghana’s agreement to address the issue of overstayers who travel on student visas and those who travel as part of official government delegations.
He appealed to Ghanaians applying for visas to return after their trips.
“So those of you applying for visas, please, when you go, come back. Because you affect everybody else,” he said.
President Mahama emphasized that there was no financial contribution as part of the understanding between Ghana and the United States.
He also informed the diplomats that negotiations are ongoing regarding the trade tariffs of 15 percent and the renewal of AGOA which was a 0 percent tariff on African nations.
The President told the envoys that their foremost responsibility is to tell Ghana’s story with conviction and credibility. They must present Ghana as a stable democracy with a proven record of peaceful transitions, a land of opportunity open for trade and investment, and a hub for technology innovation and creative economy.
Richard Aniagyei, ISD
