The Press Attaché at the United States Embassy in Ghana, Matthew Asada, clarified that a newly instituted visa restriction policy from the US is not a response to any specific concerns over Ghana's upcoming elections.

Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show, Mr Asada explained, the policy is a preventive measure intended to support democratic governance and reinforce the U.S.'s commitment to democracy in Ghana and worldwide.

When asked directly whether the new policy reflected U.S. concerns about potential threats to Ghana's democratic process in the upcoming general elections, Mr. Asada dispelled any such notions.

“No, by no means,” he stated.

“This is something again, that the United States is applying as a tool as part of our foreign policy in countries like Ghana and others, but it’s not any reflection of a heightened concern about this election. But it really is a preventive and good governance measure to show that we support the democratic aspiration of the Ghanaian people.”

On Monday, the US announced a new visa restriction policy for people undermining democracy in Ghana.

According to a press release by Secretary of State, Antony J. Blinken, the “United States is committed to supporting and advancing democracy in Ghana and around the world. “

The communiqué explained that the visa restriction policy would apply only to specific individuals who undermine democracy and is not directed at the Ghanaian people nor the Government of Ghana.”

Watch full interview with Press Attache below: