Fred Kwarteng, former Head of Information Technology at Ghana’s Embassy in Washington D.C., has denied any involvement in corruption after being implicated in an alleged unauthorised payment scheme.
In an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen program, Mr. Kwarteng explained that the online system he developed was designed to address internal processing delays and streamline consular services.
He said the system was part of several projects he undertook for the embassy without compensation.
“This system wasn’t for profit. It was to solve an internal challenge and streamline consular services. I did this at no cost to the embassy,” he said.
A special audit report had accused Mr. Kwarteng of setting up an unauthorised payment portal that redirected passport applicants to his private company, Ghana Travel Consultants (GTC).
The portal reportedly charged applicants fees ranging from $29.75 to $60, which were not approved under Ghana’s Fees and Charges Act.
The scandal prompted Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa to temporarily shut down the embassy on May 26, 2025, for a “comprehensive restructuring and systems overhaul.” The embassy resumed full operations on May 29.
Mr. Kwarteng confirmed he received a termination letter signed by the Acting Head of Mission but declined to disclose when he received it. “I have received a letter communicating my dismissal but I haven’t had any encounter with the Minister. I’m still in the US,” he said.
Describing his role, he said, “I was reporting to the administration and in charge of everything that had to do with technology. I was the only IT support staff.”
Addressing reports that he admitted wrongdoing during the audit, Mr. Kwarteng refuted the claims.
“I don’t know where the report came from or who compiled it. But on May 19, I was at work when a delegation from Accra said they wanted to meet me. They raised concerns about the extra charges, and I gave a full explanation,” he said.
He maintained that he acted in good faith and was unaware his actions would be viewed as misconduct.
