Over 380 diplomatic passports have been returned following a presidential recall directive to enhance accountability and proper management of diplomatic passports, Citi News has gathered.
The directive, issued by Dr. Callistus Mahama, Secretary to the President, required the return of all diplomatic and service passports issued under the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) government.
This recall officially expired on Friday, January 24, 2025.
According to Ministry sources, most of the recalled passports were submitted by Thursday, January 23, a day ahead of the deadline.
The initiative is part of efforts by the current administration to ensure that these specialised travel documents are used exclusively for their intended purpose – facilitating official state representation abroad.
Diplomatic passports provide holders with privileges such as expedited customs clearance and exemptions from certain taxes and duties in host countries.
Mismanagement of these documents, however, could pose risks to national security and international relations.
The recall followed reports that some individuals who no longer serve in official capacities were still in possession of diplomatic passports, raising concerns about potential misuse.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has expressed its commitment to enforcing stricter measures to prevent future misuse of diplomatic passports.
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