Presidential Staffer, Bridget Otoo has blamed Ghanaian students in the United States for the United State’s visa restrictions on Ghana.
The United States last week announced it had revised its entry visas for Ghana and instead of the usual 5 year multiple entries for B1, B2 visa categories, it had reviewed it to a maximum of 3 months, single entry.
The United States said its decision was reciprocal, suggesting that Ghana had also decided to issue same duration of visas for US citizens.
Reacting to the United States’ decision on X, newly appointed presidential staffer, Bridget Otoo, tried to absolve the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the government of any blame despite the Foreign Minister, Samuel Okudzeto, coming under intense criticisms over his recent public outburst against the US.
Bridget claimed Ghanaians students living in the United States had over-stayed their visa and this is the reason for the visa restriction.
“Earlier this year, the US threatened to issue restrictions on Ghana if our students continued to overstay on their visits, this information was made public by the foreign affairs ministry. It was estimated that 21% of Ghanaian students overstayed their visits which was well past the accepted threshold of 15%.”
“The U.S. followed through on its threats and has implemented the restrictions, limiting B-1 visas for non-immigrants from up to 5 years to just 3-months. This has absolutely nothing to do with the Foreign Affairs minister.”
“So please do not fall for the propaganda being peddled by the opposition,” she wrote.
However, many X users have hit back at Bridget Otoo, rejecting the her reasons and accusing her of engaging in propaganda to shield her government.
“Ur (your) job hard . You go explain Taya! Do you understand the word, reciprocal ? Stop the lies and just admit that your Mahama and the undiplomatic and arrogant Foreign Affairs Minister, @S_OkudzetoAblak utterances and actions have impacted Ghanaians negatively. Shame on you,” a Facebook user replied.
Another user said; “Is it true that the ministry has reduced the visa duration for US visa applicants?
From their website, it says it is a reciprocal policy. How does what you have written fit into this policy? Am doing to you the exact thing you are doing to me, that’s reciprocal.”
Another user slammed Bridget saying she is peddling falsehoods to impress his paymasters as she plays her new role in government.
“You sound dumb. Don’t try peddling falsehoods and play dumb with the minds of Ghanaians. How tf does Ghanaian students overstaying got to do with b1/b2 ish. Your minister behaved childish and he’s got no diplomacy level. Just behaving like a grassroot member in opposition. Tsw.”
AME
