The Minority in Parliament has criticised the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, accusing him of turning the evacuation of Ghanaians affected by xenophobic violence in South Africa into what they describe as a public relations spectacle.
According to the Minority, while the safety and welfare of Ghanaian citizens abroad should remain a top national priority, the government’s handling and communication of the evacuation exercise have been overly focused on publicity rather than the substantive challenges facing those affected.
Addressing journalists in Accra, members of the Minority questioned the Minister’s frequent public announcements and media engagements surrounding the operation. They argued that the evacuation of distressed citizens should be treated as a humanitarian intervention rather than a political achievement.
The criticism follows recent efforts by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to facilitate the return of Ghanaians caught up in renewed xenophobic attacks in parts of South Africa. The Ministry has highlighted its collaboration with Ghana’s diplomatic mission in Pretoria and local authorities to ensure the safe evacuation and support of affected nationals.
However, the Minority contends that the government has exaggerated its role in the process and has failed to provide sufficient details regarding the number of affected Ghanaians, the cost of the operation, and the long-term support arrangements for returnees.
They further called on the Foreign Affairs Ministry to focus on providing transparent updates and comprehensive assistance to victims instead of what they described as attempts to gain political mileage from the crisis.
The lawmakers also urged the government to intensify diplomatic engagements with South African authorities to address the recurring incidents of xenophobic violence targeting foreign nationals, including Ghanaians.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has maintained that its actions have been guided solely by the need to protect Ghanaian citizens abroad. Officials insist that keeping the public informed about rescue and evacuation efforts is part of government accountability and transparency.
The debate comes amid growing concern over the safety of African migrants in South Africa, where sporadic outbreaks of xenophobic violence have continued to pose threats to foreign communities despite repeated calls for stronger preventive measures.
As the situation develops, stakeholders are expected to continue discussions on how best to protect Ghanaian citizens overseas while ensuring that humanitarian interventions remain effective, transparent and free from partisan controversy.
