The Minority Caucus on Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee has called upon Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, to implement a more tactful and consultative strategy in fulfilling his responsibilities—cautioning against the increasing reliance on social media for significant foreign policy declarations.
Their apprehensions stem from the recent closure of Ghana’s Embassy in Washington, D.C., which was communicated by the Minister through Facebook and X (formerly Twitter), amidst allegations of corruption and misconduct at the Mission.
Under the leadership of Ranking Member Samuel A. Jinapor, the Minority on Tuesday, May 27, condemned this method as a stark deviation from Ghana’s established tradition of discreet diplomacy.
“We were completely taken aback and astonished to discover the decision through public announcements, rather than through prior discussions with the Foreign Affairs Committee,” Jinapor remarked.
“Such a crucial decision should have been preceded by a briefing to the committee and handled through careful diplomatic channels.”
While acknowledging the importance of accountability, the caucus emphasized that such issues ought to be managed with discretion to safeguard Ghana’s reputation and prevent demoralization among foreign service officers.
“This method has extensive implications for the morale of our foreign service officers, the standing of our nation, and the well-being of Ghanaian citizens overseas,” Jinapor pointed out.
They clarified that their concern is not about concealing misconduct, but about ensuring that diplomacy does not devolve into a “public spectacle or political posturing.”
The caucus also expressed concerns regarding the implementation of chip-embedded passports and the inconsistent processing timelines, pointing to inadequate communication and a lack of consultation.
“International relations necessitate tact, discreet negotiation, and consistency,” Jinapor remarked. “Diplomacy is not a platform for political point-scoring or impulsive announcements. It is a domain for composed, deliberate maneuvering that safeguards the nation’s long-term interests.”
He further revealed that even some Majority MPs on the committee were not informed in advance about the embassy’s closure, characterizing the situation as alarming.
The Minority concluded by urging the Minister to adhere to institutional processes and enhance collaboration with Parliament.
“We are convinced that with increased engagement, more diplomacy, and reduced populism, Ghana’s reputation will be maintained and improved,” Jinapor asserted. “We trust the Minister will consider these concerns as we move forward.”
The Ministry has since confirmed that the embassy in Washington, D.C. will reopen on Thursday, May 29, 2025.
