Questions raised over impartiality of committee investigating passport scandal

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has come under scrutiny over concerns surrounding the independence of the committee investigating allegations involving the Director of Passports, Yahaya Amantana Mahama.

The development follows a report published by MyNewsGh.com on Thursday, November 5, 2026, about Mr Mahama’s interdiction after a petition was submitted by a prominent Ghanaian pastor, whose name has been withheld, and his wife over the acquisition of a service passport and related matters.

Following the petition, the ministry established a five-member investigative committee on October 13, 2026, to examine the allegations.

The committee is chaired by Ambassador Alexander Grant, with Ambassador Francis Danti Kotia, Madam Caroline Oppong Ntiri, Jeswuni Abudu and Audrey Abayage serving as members. Nana Yaa Wadee was also listed among the committee members.

However, questions have emerged about Ambassador Grant’s suitability to lead the investigation, with allegations that his close relationship with the embattled Director of Passports could compromise the committee’s independence and credibility.

It is further alleged that Ambassador Grant has maintained a particularly close association with Mr Mahama and has acted in ways that protect his interests.

Meanwhile, MyNewsGh.com has gathered that Ambassador Francis Danti Kotia has been assigned to take over the administration of the Passport Office as acting Director pending the outcome of the investigations.

The controversy comes amid allegations raised by the Minority in Parliament, led by Samuel Abu Jinapor, Ranking Member of the Foreign Affairs Committee, that Ghanaian diplomatic passports were being sold for between US$10,000 and US$50,000.

Addressing Parliament, Mr Jinapor insisted that evidence existed to support the allegations.

“As we speak today, there is evidence, unimpeachable evidence, that today diplomatic passports are being sold, Mr Speaker,” he said.

-mynewsgh