The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has confirmed that the government is providing consular assistance to the Member of Parliament for Asante Akyem North, Kwame Ohene Frimpong, who remains in detention in the Netherlands following his arrest over alleged money laundering and romance scam-related offences.
Speaking at a press conference on Monday, July 27, Mr Ablakwa said Ghana’s Embassy in The Hague has been actively engaging the Dutch authorities, the MP’s family and his legal representatives to ensure that his rights are protected throughout the ongoing legal process.
“Following his detention, our mission in The Hague has taken up the matter and is offering consular assistance to the Honourable Member of Parliament. They are coordinating with his family and his legal representatives as well as relevant Dutch authorities to ensure that he is treated in accordance with internationally recognised standards and that his rights are not violated,” the Minister said.
Kwame Ohene Frimpong was arrested at Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport on May 8 in connection with allegations of money laundering and romance scam-related offences. His continued detention has sparked discussions over the possible application of Article 97(1)(c) of the 1992 Constitution, which provides for the vacation of a parliamentary seat if an MP is absent from 15 consecutive sittings without the Speaker’s permission.
Mr Ablakwa disclosed that he personally visited the legislator during an official trip to the Netherlands on May 24 and found him to be in good condition.
“I can confirm that on the 24th of May 2026, I personally paid the Honourable MP a consular visit in The Hague. I also noted that he was doing quite well when I engaged him. I also had the opportunity of interacting with his lawyer during my consular visit to The Hague,” he stated.
The Foreign Affairs Minister further revealed that he raised the matter with the Netherlands’ Minister for Justice and Security, David van Weel, during a courtesy call on July 21.
According to Mr Ablakwa, the Dutch minister assured him that the legal process would be conducted in accordance with due process and that the rights of the Ghanaian legislator would be fully respected.
“In addition, during a courtesy call on me by the Dutch Minister for Justice and Security, His Excellency David van Weel, on 21st July 2026, I raised the matter with him, and the Dutch Minister for Justice and Security assured that the Dutch government is committed to due process and will ensure that the rights of the Honourable Member of Parliament are protected,” he said.
Mr Ablakwa reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing all necessary consular support to Mr Frimpong as he challenges the extradition proceedings against him in the Netherlands.
He added that the government wishes the Asante Akyem North MP well and will continue to monitor the case while offering the appropriate assistance throughout the legal proceedings.
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