The question of whether dual citizens should occupy certain high public offices in Ghana continues to generate important national debate. Dual citizenship undoubtedly brings benefits such as international exposure, advanced skills, global networks, and investment opportunities. However, when it comes to highly sensitive and strategic state positions, there must be firm safeguards to protect national security, accountability, fairness, and sovereignty.
I respectfully submit that dual citizens may serve in ministerial roles and as Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of state institutions, but should not be eligible for positions such as Member of Parliament, Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Chief of Defence Staff, and Ambassadorial appointments unless they formally renounce any other citizenship.
To begin with, the issue of undivided loyalty is crucial. Members of Parliament are lawmakers who shape the direction of the country and approve decisions concerning national security, finance, and international agreements. The Inspector-General of Police and the Chief of Defence Staff command the internal security and military defense of the nation. Ambassadors officially represent Ghana’s sovereignty and national interest abroad. These offices are directly tied to the protection and authority of the state. Holding another citizenship may raise concerns about divided allegiance, particularly during diplomatic disputes or security crises. For these sensitive roles, loyalty must be singular and unquestionable.
Again, accountability is a major concern. Individuals in these high offices control state resources and wield significant power. If a public officer misappropriates state funds or abuses authority, and that person holds another citizenship, there is a risk that they could relocate to their other country and complicate efforts to ensure justice. Even with extradition treaties, legal processes can be lengthy and politically sensitive. The possibility that a state official could seek protection elsewhere undermines public confidence in leadership and weakens trust in governance.
Furthermore, fairness must be considered. Politics and high public office in Ghana have increasingly become monetized. We recently witnessed what happened during the NDC parliamentary primaries in the Ayawaso East, where some aspirants were sharing 32- inch TVs and other expensive items. Imagine a citizen who is working abroad the kind of money can use to influence the election. A dual citizen who has worked and saved abroad may possess access to stronger foreign currencies and larger financial resources compared to local candidates who have lived under Ghana’s economic realities. This may create an uneven playing field and discourage grassroots leaders from contesting for office. Public leadership should not be determined primarily by external financial advantage.
Moreover, there is the issue of connection to local realities. Individuals who have lived outside Ghana for extended periods may not be fully abreast of the day-to-day challenges facing citizens, such as unemployment, rising cost of living, infrastructure deficits, and local governance struggles. Long absence may lead to detachment from the lived experiences of ordinary Ghanaians. Leadership in strategic national roles requires deep and continuous engagement with the realities on the ground.
Additionally, allowing dual citizens to occupy these high offices without renouncing their other nationality may generate political tension, legal disputes, and unnecessary controversy. Opponents could challenge eligibility in court, potentially leading to instability and avoidable national division. Clear constitutional requirements would prevent such confusion and safeguard the stability of our democracy.
This position does not dismiss the valuable contributions of Ghanaians in the diaspora. Dual citizens can significantly contribute as Ministers or CEOs of state institutions, where they operate under presidential authority and institutional oversight mechanisms. Their global experience, professional competence, and international networks can be beneficial to national development. However, positions directly tied to law-making, national security command, and diplomatic sovereignty such as Member of Parliament, Inspector-General of Police, Chief of Defence Staff, and Ambassador, should require exclusive allegiance to Ghana.
Under the 1992 Constitution of Ghana, allegiance to Ghana remains a foundational principle in holding public office. Strengthening this principle for the most sensitive roles will enhance accountability, reduce potential political chaos, promote fairness, and protect national sovereignty.
In conclusion, Ghana must strike a careful balance between inclusiveness and national interest. While dual citizenship offers developmental advantages, certain strategic offices demand exclusive loyalty and full accountability to the Ghanaian state. Requiring renunciation of other citizenships for these positions will strengthen governance, protect national security, and reinforce public trust in leadership.
By Kennedy Adu
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