Political rights of dual citizens will soon be addressed by Parliament – Akufo-Addo

President of the Republic Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo says Ghana’s Parliament will soon be afforded the opportunity to address the issue of Political Rights of persons who have dual citizenship in the country.

The President made the observation when he addressed the Ghana Diaspora Celebration and Homecoming Summit 2019 at the Accra International Conference Centre, which is part of activities earmaked for the celebration of the “Year of Return”.

Ghana’s 1992 Constitution for example in Article 94 (2A) states as follows, “a person shall not be qualified to be a member of Parliament if he – (a) owes allegiance to a country other than Ghana”. This and several other provision of the constitution places restrictions on dual citizens from political participation in Ghana, especially, in public elections.

“We know from the example of several countries where a truthful collaboration between their overseas nationals and their governments can bring for their national development and prosperity. Let us emulate them. The question of the political rights of dual citizens is a matter for Parliament and an opportunity is going to be provided soon for Parliament to address this issue” President Akufo Addo said.

The President in his speech also indicated that he looks forward to the Diasporan Bill coming before Cabinet for consideration before it is is laid before Parliament.

“I am happy about the decision taken by the Office of Diasporan Affairs headed by one of your own Akwasi Awuah Ababio, to work on the diasporain engagement policy bill. This bill will help deal effectively with all matters affecting overseas Ghanaians” the President stated.

President Akufo Addo further noted that he has a clear vision of where he want to take Ghana. He Solicited the help of Ghanaians and the Diaspora to joint hands with him to deliver progress and prosperity to every part of the country.

The Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Barbara Oteng Gyasi, in her remarks urged the participants of the four day summit to use the opportunity to “network, engage and form solid relationships that will help you to contribute to the building of our beloved motherland, Ghana”.