The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Shirley Ayokor Botchwey, has faced criticism after her visit to the passport office where she took action against alleged fraudulent activities.
She expressed her frustration over the extortion of money from passport applicants by both passport office staff and unauthorized individuals known as “goro boys and girls,” who offer expedited services for a fee.
During her visit, the minister mentioned that she had instructed her officers to implement an online system to streamline the passport application process, but this system had also been manipulated to profit illicitly. She stated that investigations were ongoing, and if individuals were found guilty, they would face consequences.
Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey also highlighted the need to bring accountability and integrity to the system, emphasizing that not all accusations of corruption should be directed solely at politicians. She expressed her determination to address the issue and restore order to the process.
In addition, the minister called for the removal of security service personnel who had overstayed their duration at the Passport Office in Accra, stating that Ghanaians should not have to pay exorbitant fees to acquire a passport.
However, her actions and statements received criticism from some Ghanaians who felt that she might have been aware of the ongoing issues at the passport office and was attempting to distance herself from the situation. The incident highlights the public’s skepticism towards government officials and their reactions to corruption and mismanagement within public institutions.