Washington Embassy closure: Minority questions Ablakwa’s public disclosure amid investigations

Nana Kwame Asafo-Adjei Ayeh, Deputy Ranking Member on the Foreign Affairs Committee, criticized Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa. He objected to the premature announcement of Ghana’s embassy closure in Washington, D.C. This announcement came while investigations into a major corruption scandal are ongoing.

In an interview on Joy FM's Midday News on May 26, Ayeh expressed concerns about how the closure was communicated. He specifically mentioned the use of social media for this announcement.

"Investigations are going on. So why do you write on social media?" he asked. He warned that such public declarations could harm Ghana’s reputation abroad.

Ayeh questioned the costs associated with this temporary closure. He also raised concerns about potential diplomatic consequences for Ghana.

The Foreign Affairs Ministry announced the embassy's temporary closure effective May 26, 2025. This decision was part of a “comprehensive restructuring and systems overhaul.” It followed a special audit revealing fraudulent activities by local staff member Fred Kwarteng.

Kwarteng allegedly created an unauthorized payment portal for passport fees. These fees ranged from $29.75 to $60 and were not approved under Ghana’s Fees and Charges Act.

Ayeh argued that labeling the embassy as fraudulent could damage international confidence. "Would stakeholders like the U.S. government feel comfortable dealing with a declared fraudulent embassy?" he asked.

He clarified that the Minority does not oppose sanctions or disciplinary measures against wrongdoing at the embassy. However, he emphasized that shutting down the entire mission raises serious concerns about consultation and diplomacy.

“There should have been more consultation and tactfulness in handling this matter,” Ayeh stressed.

He disagreed with closing an entire embassy over fraud allegations, stating it represents Ghana abroad. “There are ways to uphold standards without shutting down the embassy,” he added.