The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ghana has officially debunked a widely circulated notice that falsely claimed Cambodian immigration authorities were ordering Ghanaian and other African nationals to leave the Southeast Asian country by May 31, 2026, under threat of arrest and prosecution. The ministry issued a statement on Friday, May 29, confirming that extensive investigations and diplomatic engagements with Cambodian authorities have verified the document as a fraudulent fabrication, not originating from any legitimate Cambodian state institution.
Context of the Misinformation
The false notice gained traction on social media and other online platforms, causing significant concern among Ghanaians both domestically and internationally. It purported to be an official directive from Cambodian immigration, demanding that citizens from Ghana, Kenya, Cameroon, Uganda, and several other African nations depart the country within days or face severe sanctions, including imprisonment and financial penalties.
This alleged directive triggered widespread anxiety, prompting the Ghanaian government to act swiftly to verify its authenticity and reassure its citizens.
Official Verification and Debunking
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the alleged circular was subjected to thorough verification through established diplomatic channels. The findings unequivocally confirmed its falsity.
“The ministry wishes to assure the public that following diplomatic engagements with the relevant Cambodian authorities, it has been confirmed that the said notice is absolutely fake and was not issued by any state institution in Cambodia,” the statement read.
Further reinforcing the debunking, Cambodia’s General Department of Immigration, operating under the Ministry of Interior, officially issued its own clarification. This official statement categorically rejected the purported notice’s authenticity.
“It must be noted that the General Department of Immigration of the Ministry of Interior of the Kingdom of Cambodia has today issued a press clarification stating categorically that the said notice is completely untrue,” the Ghanaian ministry added, quoting the Cambodian authorities.
Call for Responsible Information Dissemination
In light of the misinformation, the ministry urged the public, particularly media organizations and social media users, to disregard the fraudulent document. It stressed the importance of refraining from circulating unverified information that could incite fear and uncertainty among affected individuals and their families.
Voluntary Repatriation Efforts Underway
Independent of the fabricated deportation notice, the ministry disclosed that a number of Ghanaian nationals residing in Cambodia had independently expressed a desire to return home voluntarily. The government has been actively facilitating these returns.
Through Ghana’s High Commission in Malaysia, which holds concurrent accreditation to Cambodia, the government has already facilitated the return of 85 Ghanaians between March and May of the current year. Arrangements are currently in progress to support the repatriation of an additional 76 Ghanaian nationals who have also indicated their willingness to return to Ghana.
This repatriation initiative is part of the government’s broader efforts to provide essential assistance and consular support to its citizens residing abroad, especially those facing challenging circumstances.
Government’s Commitment to Citizen Protection
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reaffirmed the Ghanaian government’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the welfare and interests of its citizens, regardless of their location worldwide.
Ghanaian diplomatic officials are maintaining close contact with Cambodian authorities and other relevant stakeholders to ensure the safety and protection of all Ghanaian nationals in the country. This proactive engagement aims to address any potential issues and provide necessary support.
“The ministry will continue to work in close collaboration with all relevant authorities to ensure the safety, welfare and protection of Ghanaian nationals in Cambodia,” the statement emphasized.
The ministry also extended commendation to the government of Cambodia for its cooperative stance and support concerning matters related to Ghanaian citizens. It assured families of affected individuals that ongoing efforts are in place to facilitate the safe and orderly return of those who have requested such assistance.
Looking Ahead
The incident highlights the persistent challenge of online misinformation and its potential to create diplomatic friction and public anxiety. Moving forward, the Ghanaian Ministry of Foreign Affairs is expected to enhance its rapid response mechanisms for verifying and debunking false information concerning its citizens abroad. The ongoing voluntary repatriation efforts will also be closely monitored, providing insights into the conditions and motivations of Ghanaians seeking to return from Cambodia. The government’s continued collaboration with Cambodian authorities will be crucial in ensuring the well-being of its remaining nationals and in preventing future instances of such harmful disinformation campaigns.
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