The US also said the American visas issued to politicians and others affected by the restriction had been revoked by the Department of State.
The US Department of State had in a statement on Tuesday announced visa restrictions as consequences for persons believed to be responsible for election-related violence and rights abuses before, during and after the 2019 polls.
It said the decision reflected its commitment to working with the Nigerian government to end corruption, strengthen democracy, accountability and respect for human rights.
However, the US Department of State in response to Saturday PUNCH’s enquiries on Friday said the restrictions would also affect family members of such individuals “when warranted.”
READ ALSO : Why I Will Unbundle Supreme Court If Appointed Minister Of Justice - Keyamo
The statement read in part, “Any individual named in this policy who already has a visa to travel to the US will be informed that it has been revoked.
“Any individual named in this policy who applies for a visa to travel to the United States will be denied one.
“These restrictions may, when warranted, also affect the family members of those individuals subject to visa restrictions under this policy.”
It added that while the identities of those who would be affected by the policy could not be revealed in line with US law making visa records confidential, it meant that such individuals were not welcome in the US.
The statement, which was emailed by Nicole Thompson of the State Department Press Office, further read, “Under US law, individual visa records are confidential and we cannot provide details as to who is or will be affected.
“The policy covers those believed to be responsible for or complicit in, undermining democracy, including those responsible for or complicity in the rigging of the electoral process; corruption; vote-buying; intimidation of voters, the media or election observers through threats or acts of physical violence; suppression of peaceful protesters; and threats against judicial independence.
“With these restrictions, we are sending a clear message that those who undermine democracy or violate or abuse human rights – and their families – are not welcome in the United States.”
READ ALSO : Woman Cuts Off Cheating Ex-Husband's Genitals, Pours Acid On It, Then Flushes It Down Toilet
Are you an artiste? Do you want your music to go viral and reach a large number of audience? Promote your music and Submit your story on Ujuayalogusblog.com by clicking here. For Advert Inquiries Tel/+44(0)7590363984
For More: Subscribe to Ujuayalogusblog.com
No comments:
Post a Comment