Ghana’s embassy in Washington embroiled in alleged corruption; staff dismissed, others suspended

The Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has acted decisively. This follows reports of corruption at Ghana’s embassy in Washington, D.C.

On Monday, May 26, 2025, Mr. Ablakwa announced the dismissal of Mr. Fred Kwarteng. Kwarteng was a local staff member involved in a fraud scheme. He charged unauthorized fees to visa and passport applicants.

Mr. Kwarteng joined the embassy’s IT department in August 2017. He allegedly created an unauthorized link on the embassy's website. This link redirected applicants to his private company, Ghana Travel Consultants (GTC). Extra fees between US$29.75 and US$60 were charged without approval.

Minister Ablakwa stated that investigations showed this scheme lasted at least five years. The case has been referred to the Attorney-General for possible prosecution. Efforts will also be made to recover funds from these fraudulent activities.

“This conduct is a serious breach of public trust,” he said. “It will be met with the full force of the law.”

In addition to Kwarteng's dismissal, all staff at the Washington embassy have been recalled immediately. All locally recruited staff there have been suspended as well. The embassy’s IT department has been dissolved to prevent further abuse.

Mr. Ablakwa expressed regret for any inconvenience caused to applicants. However, he emphasized that President Mahama’s government will maintain zero tolerance for corruption and abuse of office.