Member of Parliament (MP) for North Tongu, Mr. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has entreated foreign missions in the country to treat visa applicants with dignity and respect.
The Ranking Member on the Parliamentary Select of Foreign Affairs made the statement on the floor of Parliament Wednesday.
According to the MP, most Ghanaians are abused by foreign nationals when they apply for visas.
“Shelter is not provided for Ghanaians who besiege these embassies for application. They are exposed to the negative elements of the weather. Unfortunately, these foreign missions do not care whether there is a category five hurricane or not,” Mr. Ablakwah said.
The North Tongu MP bemoaned the high cost associated with the processing of documents, adding that some of the charges are ridiculous and unrealistic.
“Some foreign Missions charge text message fees, express fees among others,” he said.
Mr. Ablakwah said for obvious diplomatic reasons, he would not mention names of foreign missions guilty of these unhealthy practices, quoting Reggae legend, Bob Marley, “Who the cap fits, let him wear it.”
Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee, Mr. Annor Dompreh said the issue must be analyzed critically and looked at in a broader perceptive since it could have dire diplomatic consequences.
He entreated his Ranking Member to eschew from making sweeping allegations without conducting the requisite investigations.
The Speaker of the House, Professor Aaron Mike Oquaye referred the issue to the Foreign Affairs Committee to investigate and interrogate the issue, visit defaulting missions and report back to the house.
Treat visa applicants with respect – Ablakwa to Foreign Missions
