Dual Citizens Not Responsible for our Country's Turmoil - Papa Kwesi Nduom

Dr. Papa Kwesi Nduom has voiced his support for amending Ghana's dual citizenship law, which currently prohibits individuals with dual citizenship from holding certain public offices. The discussion surrounding the amendment gained momentum after former President John Dramani Mahama pledged to address the issue if elected president again.

Under Article 94 (2A) of the 1992 Constitution, individuals who owe allegiance to a country other than Ghana are disqualified from serving as Members of Parliament. In response to this provision, Kennedy Nyarko, the Member of Parliament for Akim Swedru in the Eastern Region, presented a Citizenship Amendment Bill to Parliament on October 28, 2021.

Dr. Papa Kwesi Nduom, who previously ran as a presidential candidate for the Progressive People's Party, has expressed his endorsement for amending the law. He argues that many of those who have harmed the country, committed treason, undermined institutions, and damaged the economy are not dual citizens. They have never left Ghanaian soil, yet some have facilitated the sale of the country's assets to foreigners.

According to Dr. Nduom, the existing law is unnecessary and requires amendment. He highlights that many dual citizens possess valuable knowledge of foreign lands and the advantages of living in those countries but choose to return to Ghana to serve the nation. They contribute financially, build homes, and even establish companies that generate employment opportunities for Ghanaians.

Dr. Nduom questions the inconsistency of allowing dual citizens to represent Ghana in the national football team and proudly wave the national flag, while preventing them from holding public offices and contributing to the country's development. He emphasizes that foreign-born footballers are recruited to play for the Black Stars, a position that carries significant national pride. Therefore, he questions why dual citizens like himself would be doubted if he were to obtain American citizenship in addition to his Ghanaian citizenship. He affirms his love for his hometown, Elmina, and his deep-rooted commitment to its progress.

Dr. Papa Kwesi Nduom joins the chorus of voices advocating for a revision of Ghana's dual citizenship law. He believes that the current restrictions are unnecessary, preventing capable individuals from contributing to the nation's development. By highlighting the contributions of dual citizens and the contradictions in how they are treated in different contexts, he calls for a more inclusive approach that recognizes the value they can bring to Ghana's public sector.