The New Patriotic Party (NPP) Minority Caucus in Parliament has demanded the dismissal of Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, accusing him of complicity in Ghana’s inclusion among 75 countries affected by the United States immigration visa freeze.
The freeze is to take effect from January 21 2026.
Addressing a press conference at Parliament House in Accra on Tuesday, Nana Asafo-Adjei Ayeh, Deputy Ranking Member on the Parliamentary Affairs and Regional Integration Committee, alleged that the Minister’s “temperamental and uncivilised diplomatic utterances” were responsible for Ghana’s addition to the list.
The U.S. freeze, announced under Presidential Proclamation 10998, suspends immigrant visa processing for nationals of 75 countries, including Ghana.
The Minority argued that the indefinite suspension was a direct consequence of poor diplomatic conduct by the sector minister, stressing that Ghanaian families and professionals seeking permanent residency abroad now face indefinite delays.
Mr. Asafo-Adjei Ayeh urged the government to provide public accountability and take immediate steps to restore relations with Washington.
The Caucus warned that remittances from Ghanaians in the U.S., estimated between $1.5 and $2.5 billion annually, would be adversely affected, with significant economic repercussions for the country.
The Bosome-Freho Legislator further contended that the Minister’s alleged confrontational approach was undermining Ghana’s diplomatic relationships and reputation.
“The Minister’s neglect of early warning signs and risk management is damaging Ghana’s reputation as a reliable partner,” he said.
While acknowledging that the Mahama-led government was working to address U.S. concerns and restore trust, the Minority maintained that the situation remained tense, hence the call for drastic diplomatic action to reverse the suspension.
