Media Personality Warns of Diplomatic Fallout from Minister’s Actions
Media personality Okatakyie Afrifa-Mensah criticized Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa on his “For the Records” show on July 9, 2025, blaming him for the U.S. revising its visa policy for Ghana. The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs now issues single-entry B-class visas valid for three months, down from multiple-entry visas of one to five years.
Afrifa-Mensah linked the change to Ablakwa’s public spat with U.S. Senator James E. Risch of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, calling the minister’s social media responses undiplomatic. He argued that Ablakwa’s behavior, including engaging in online disputes, has damaged Ghana’s image and hurt students reliant on U.S. visas. Afrifa-Mensah urged President John Mahama to sack Ablakwa to prevent further harm to the NDC government.
The visa policy shift follows Ghana’s temporary closure of its Washington embassy in May 2025 over a visa fraud scandal, where a staffer, Fred Kwarteng, allegedly funneled applicants to his private firm, charging extra fees. Ablakwa’s audit led to suspensions and an ongoing investigation, with the Attorney-General pursuing prosecution. The minister had earlier warned in June 2025 of a potential U.S. visa ban due to 21% of Ghanaian students overstaying visas, exceeding the 15% threshold.
Afrifa-Mensah claimed Ablakwa’s actions, including his response to Risch’s July 4 criticism over unpaid debts to U.S. firms, triggered the visa restrictions. Risch had suggested Ablakwa stay in Accra, prompting a sharp reply invoking Ghana’s sovereignty and colonial history. The media host warned that such conduct could undermine Mahama’s administration if unchecked.
The controversy highlights strained Ghana-U.S. relations, with the visa policy change affecting travel and education. While Ablakwa defends his anti-corruption efforts and diplomatic stance, critics like Afrifa-Mensah argue his approach risks Ghana’s global standing, urging a more restrained diplomatic tone.