Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Ghanaian Times
Published on 2024-04-03 07:06:00
The recent announcement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration (MFARI) regarding the increased cost of acquiring a Ghanaian passport has sparked varied reactions from the public. Some individuals interviewed by the Ghanaian Times over the weekend expressed concerns and called on the government to reconsider the decision or implement measures to streamline the passport acquisition process in the country.
The updated fees for passport applications now include an expedited application fee of GH¢800.00 for a 48-page booklet and GH¢700.00 for a 32-page booklet. Standard application fees have also been revised to GH¢500.00 for the 32-page booklet and GH¢644.00 for the 48-page booklet, as opposed to the previous fee of GH¢100.00.
Robert Antwi, a pupil teacher, highlighted the challenges associated with the current passport acquisition process, which often leads individuals to seek the assistance of middlemen, known as “gorro boys,” who charge excessive fees for their services. Antwi shared his frustrating experience of applying for a new passport online in December and being required to physically appear at the passport office in June, underscoring the need for a more efficient and digitized system.
Sitsope Apetorgbor, a student at the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA), emphasized the importance of reconsidering the fee increment, especially for students and children. She stressed the significance of ensuring that children have access to affordable travel documentation, as they are the future leaders and innovators of the country. By advocating for exemptions for students facing financial constraints, Apetorgbor aimed to remove barriers to passport acquisition for this demographic.
Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Mr. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, criticized the fee increment, citing the current high cost of living in the country. He revealed that the Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee had recommended postponing the fee review until economic conditions improved, a suggestion that was not heeded.
Enoch Dzokoto, a taxi driver, urged the government to prioritize the needs of the people and avoid frequent adjustments to service prices. He highlighted the challenges of poverty and unemployment in Ghana, which contribute to increased crime rates, emphasizing that such fee increments exacerbate the country’s crises. Dzokoto called for a focus on enhancing services at the passport office to ensure value for the fees paid by citizens.
Nurse Gertrude Addison echoed concerns about the timing of the fee increment, noting that it comes at a time when many Ghanaians are struggling to make ends meet. She criticized the government for not prioritizing the welfare of vulnerable groups and suggested focusing on addressing existing challenges in the passport acquisition process and combating the influence of middlemen before considering any fee adjustments.
In conclusion, the public’s reaction to the increased cost of acquiring a Ghanaian passport reflects the concerns and frustrations faced by individuals in the country. Calls for a more streamlined process, exemptions for vulnerable groups, and improved services at the passport office underscore the need for a holistic approach to passport acquisition that prioritizes efficiency, affordability, and the welfare of citizens.
Read the original article on Ghanaian Times
