KEY POINTS
- Ghana cancels two diplomatic property sales deal initiated by the previous administration.
- Efforts are underway to recover an illegal partial payment from one of the deals.
- Diplomatic properties in Ghana and abroad are not for sale under the current government.
Ghana has officially canceled two diplomatic property sales deal initiated by the previous administration, which sought to sell diplomatic properties in Nigeria and Zambia.
Ghana announced the cancellation of the diplomatic property sales deal
The announcement was made by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, who emphasized that the government is committed to protecting the nation’s diplomatic assets.
Ablakwa posted on X (formerly Twitter) on March 29, revealing that efforts are underway to recover an illegal partial payment made during one of these transactions.
According to Graphic Online, he also stressed that those behind the deals, who are currently evading authorities, will be held accountable.
“Yesterday, I informed Parliament that with the full backing of President John Dramani Mahama, we have canceled two transactions initiated by the previous administration to sell Ghanaian diplomatic properties in Nigeria and Zambia,” Ablakwa stated.
“Efforts are underway to retrieve an illegal part payment in one of the transactions. The masterminds behind this will be found and sanctioned.
No diplomatic property belonging to the people of Ghana will be sold under our watch,” he added.
Ghana affirms commitment to preserving diplomatic assets
The Minister made it clear that Ghana’s diplomatic properties, both in the country and in the 71 diplomatic missions abroad, are not for sale.
However, he warned any interested parties to immediately desist from pursuing such transactions.
“Notice is hereby served that none of our diplomatic properties, either in Ghana or any of our 71 diplomatic missions abroad, are available for sale — hands off!” Ablakwa said.
Moreover, he also outlined that the government will continue to adhere to principles that prioritize national interest, rejecting State Capture and ensuring transparency in all dealings.
“The principles of ORAL, strict abhorrence for State Capture, and the national interest shall continue to guide our decisions,” he emphasized.
Ghana’s diplomatic mission structure and international stance
As a member of the Commonwealth of Nations, Ghana operates several diplomatic missions worldwide.
Properties in these missions, particularly in Commonwealth countries, are considered High Commissions.
Ghana’s stance on safeguarding these assets reinforces its commitment to international diplomacy and the interests of its citizens globally.
