Keypoints:
- Mahama rejects deportee-linked US visa claims
- Says Ghana will not be a ‘dumping ground’
- Confirms ongoing trade and AGOA talks
PRESIDENT John Mahama has dismissed suggestions that the United States lifted its visa restrictions on Ghana as part of a deal involving deportees. Speaking in Accra on Friday, Mahama said such claims were ‘false, misleading, and contrary to the facts’, stressing that Ghana’s agreement with Washington was reached through diplomacy and mutual respect.
He stated that the outcome of the negotiations was ‘in Ghana’s best interest’ and not tied to any covert deportation arrangements. ‘Let me state clearly that this outcome was negotiated in Ghana’s best interest,’ Mahama said. ‘There was no financial consideration, no secret clause, and certainly no agreement that undermines our sovereignty or security.’
‘Ghana will not be a dumping ground’
Mahama explained that the discussions with the US focused on addressing Ghanaian nationals who overstay their visas, particularly students and official delegates. ‘We agreed to collaborate with US authorities to ensure that our citizens comply with visa regulations. Those of you applying for visas, please, when you go, come back — because you affect everybody else,’ he told citizens.
He was categorical that Ghana would not accept deportees with criminal backgrounds or individuals from other countries under the guise of bilateral cooperation. ‘Ghana will not, and I repeat, will not become a dumping ground for deportees,’ Mahama declared, drawing applause. ‘Any return of citizens will follow due process and respect for our national dignity.’
Addressing speculation
The President’s comments followed speculation that Washington’s reversal of visa sanctions — imposed under the Trump administration — was tied to Ghana’s quiet acceptance of deportees. Mahama rejected this view, emphasising that the agreement was strictly limited to ensuring Ghanaian compliance with visa rules.
‘Our understanding with the United States is limited, carefully vetted, and aligned with ECOWAS protocols,’ he said. ‘It reflects Ghana’s Pan-African commitment to regional cooperation while safeguarding our dignity and sovereignty.’
Mahama urged Ghanaians and the diplomatic corps to ‘protect this clarity whenever questions arise’, warning against the spread of misinformation on sensitive foreign policy matters.
Trade and AGOA talks ongoing
The President also provided an update on Ghana’s trade negotiations with the United States. He confirmed that discussions were continuing over the 15 percent tariffs currently applied to certain exports, as well as the renewal of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which had granted African exporters duty-free access to US markets.
‘Negotiations are ongoing on trade tariffs and AGOA renewal,’ Mahama noted. ‘These talks are part of a broader effort to secure fairer access for Ghanaian products in the US market.’
Safeguarding sovereignty in diplomacy
Mahama concluded his address by reaffirming Ghana’s commitment to an independent foreign policy that prioritises sovereignty and dignity. He stressed that Ghana would remain a cooperative partner in global diplomacy but would never trade its independence for short-term gain.
‘Our partnership with the United States must always respect Ghana’s dignity,’ Mahama said. ‘We will continue to engage the world from a position of mutual respect, not subservience.’
His remarks were widely seen as an effort to reassure citizens and the international community that Ghana’s diplomacy remains anchored in transparency, pan-African solidarity, and the defence of national sovereignty.
