Washington Embassy Saga: I built payment system in good faith – Fred Kwarteng

Fred Kwarteng, former Head of IT at Ghana’s Embassy in Washington D.C., defended his online consular payment platform. He insists it was created in good faith and not for personal gain.

In an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen, Kwarteng addressed allegations against him. Critics claim he set up an unauthorized payment portal that redirected passport applicants to his private company, Ghana Travel Consultants (GTC).

The portal reportedly charged extra fees between $29.75 and $60. These charges were not approved by Ghana’s Fees and Charges Act.

Kwarteng explained, “This system wasn’t for profit. It aimed to solve internal challenges and streamline consular services.” He added that he did this at no cost to the embassy.

A special audit report found Kwarteng breached protocol, raising concerns from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This led to the temporary closure of the Ghana Embassy on May 26, 2025, while authorities overhauled systems. Full operations resumed on May 29.

Kwarteng confirmed he received a dismissal letter from the Acting Head of Mission but did not disclose its date. He stated he had not interacted directly with Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.

“I was the only IT support staff and reported directly to administration,” he said. “I never imagined my work would be seen as misconduct.”

Regarding claims that he admitted wrongdoing during the audit, Kwarteng responded, “I don’t know where that came from.” He explained everything when a delegation from Accra met him on May 19.

Kwarteng expressed surprise at the backlash. He reiterated that his actions aimed to support embassy operations—not exploit them.