The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration has announced the cancellation of 701 diplomatic and service passports previously issued to former government officials, their spouses, and other dignit
aries who served under the administration of former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
Effective Tuesday, May 6, 2025, these passports are rendered invalid for international travel, according to an official statement issued by the Ministry.
The affected individuals had previously been notified in public notices dated January 15 and March 10, 2025, to return their passports in line with the provisions of the Passports and Travel Certificates Act, 1967 (NLCD 155). Sections 6 and 7 of the Act specify eligibility for holding diplomatic and service passports based on current official roles.
The directive affects a broad category of individuals, including:
- Former Ministers and their Spouses
- Former Members of Parliament
- Former Members of the Council of State and Spouses
- Retired Justices of the Superior and Lower Courts
- Former Regional Ministers, MMDCEs
- Former Officials of State Institutions, Board Chairs, and Members
- Officials linked to the National Cathedral Project
- Former Non-Career Ambassadors and Dependents
- Religious and Traditional Leaders
- Prominent Business Executives and Entrepreneurs
- Other Former Government Functionaries
The Ministry noted that 407 diplomatic and 403 service passport holders complied with the directive and voluntarily returned their documents.
However, 341 diplomatic and 360 service passports were not returned, prompting their immediate cancellation. The affected passports have now been placed on a stop-list and will be confiscated at all points of entry or exit if used.
Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa authorized the cancellation, emphasizing the government’s commitment to enforcing passport regulations and ensuring that official travel documents are used strictly in accordance with the law.