The United States has announced a new visa restriction policy targeting individuals who undermine Ghana’s democratic process, just ahead of the nation’s December 7, 2024, presidential and parliamentary elections. This latest move by the US Department of State underscores America’s commitment to supporting free and fair elections, specifically in countries with strong democratic histories like Ghana.
According to the Department of State, this policy will “restrict U.S. visas for any individual responsible for undermining democracy in Ghana.” The restrictions will apply solely to specific individuals and, in some cases, their family members. The State Department emphasised in statement on October 28 that this action is ‘not directed at the Ghanaian people nor the Government of Ghana,’ but rather at those who may attempt to interfere with democratic processes, including tampering with votes or intimidating voters.
Backing Ghana’s democratic legacy
With three decades of peaceful elections and transitions of power, Ghana is often cited as a model of stable democracy in Africa. Recognising this, the US praised Ghana’s political achievements, describing its record as ‘a model to cherish.’ Highlighting the stakes for Ghana’s upcoming election, the US Department of State stated, ‘The United States’ readiness to impose visa restrictions if circumstances warrant is an example of our support for the aspirations of all Ghanaians for a peaceful, transparent, and credible electoral process that reflects the will of the people.’
The policy is implemented under Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the US Immigration and Nationality Act, which enables the Department of State to deny visas to individuals believed to be ‘responsible for, or complicit in, undermining democracy in Ghana.’ This includes acts such as ‘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.’
Measures to ensure a fair vote
The visa ban policy will apply to actions both before and after the election, aiming to deter any attempts to interfere in Ghana’s democratic procedures. The US warns that those who disrupt the election process—whether by intimidation, violence, or coercion—will face visa restrictions.
The policy also considers any attempts to silence political opposition, the media, or civil society groups. The US statement noted that it will target individuals who ‘prevent political party representatives, voters, or members of civil society or the media from voicing or disseminating their views; or [engage] in any other activity designed to improperly influence the conduct or outcome of an election.’
By reinforcing its stance against electoral interference, the US supports Ghana’s long standing democratic principles, ensuring that the upcoming elections are conducted without external influence or coercion. For Ghana, this move underscores international commitment to transparent, credible elections, while reinforcing Ghana’s status as a beacon of democracy in Africa.
Credit: Reuters
