“There is no function in Parliament that allocates visas” – Hon Kobena Woyome replies Pius Hadzide

Honorable Kobena Mensah Woyome has openly criticized Pius Enam Hadzide during a joint Victory Walk by Hon. Ablakwa and Hon. Ampem Nyarko at Juapong for promising to send constituents abroad if elected to office.

Hon. Woyome, in his response, stated emphatically that no individual, including a Member of Parliament, has the authority to facilitate the issuance of visas. He described such claims as misleading and an attempt to create unrealistic expectations among voters.

Hon. Kobena Woyome emphasized that visa issuance is the prerogative of foreign embassies and consulates, governed by strict international protocols. He urged politicians to avoid making promises that are outside their capacity and to focus on practical solutions to local challenges.

Honorable Kobena Mensah Woyome was responding to comments made by Pius Enam Hadzide few months ago, clarifying that Parliament does not have any function or mandate to issue visas.

Below is the utterances of Pius Hadzide at Asuogyaman; “Nananom, did you know that it takes 18 hours to travel from Ghana to Australia? Yet, I was able to assist some individuals in making this journey. The 2026 World Cup will be held in America, which is just a 7-hour flight from Ghana.

“If you, Nananom, desire for your children to travel to America to work and send money back home, or if you are a young person eager to explore opportunities abroad, I promise to support you when I become MP.

“Unlike my opponent, who has had the chance but failed to assist the youth, I will facilitate travel opportunities for all interested young people to destinations like Germany, America, UK, France, and Canada.

“So, I kindly ask for your support in the upcoming election, and I will ensure that I help you achieve your dreams of travelling abroad.”

Hon. Woyome emphasized that visa issuance is solely the responsibility of embassies and consulates of foreign countries, and Parliament’s role is to legislate and oversee national matters not to engage in activities such as visa processing. He further stated that any claims suggesting otherwise are baseless and undermine the integrity of Parliament.

This clarification aims to set the record straight amidst public discourse on the matter and reaffirms the separation of duties between legislative bodies and consular services. Woyome’s response highlights the need for accurate information to maintain trust in public institutions and finally urged the crowd to vote for Hon. Ampem Nyarko.