Accra, Ghana – The Minority in Ghana’s Parliament has voiced strong criticism regarding the recent evacuation of Ghanaians from South Africa, describing the reception of the first batch of 297 evacuees at the Accra International Airport as excessive “funfair” and “public relations.” The opposition faction argues that the government, particularly the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, should prioritize substantive relief efforts for citizens still stranded amidst escalating xenophobic attacks in South Africa, rather than focusing on celebratory events.
Calls for Substance Over Spectacle
Samuel Abdulai Jinapor, the Ranking Member on the Foreign Affairs Committee, led the charge, urging the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, to shift focus from “razzmatazz” and “social media branding” to the critical task of ensuring the safety and repatriation of all Ghanaians affected by the crisis.
“The Minister for Foreign Affairs should focus on delivery. He should focus on the substantive work and pay less attention to public relations,” Jinapor stated. He acknowledged that while communication and welcoming efforts are acceptable, the primary concern for citizens, both in Ghana and South Africa, is the successful completion of the evacuation mission.
Historical Context of Evacuations
Jinapor drew parallels with previous government-led evacuations, highlighting that such operations have historically been carried out with less fanfare. He cited the Rawlings administration’s evacuation of Ghanaians from Liberia and Sierra Leone during civil conflicts, and the Akufo-Addo government’s repatriation of nearly 9,000 citizens from Ukraine during the COVID-19 pandemic.
While commending the ministry for managing the current evacuation, he pointed out that the scale of the South African operation, involving approximately 300 individuals on the first flight, is significantly smaller than past efforts. He stressed that this is merely the initial phase, with many more Ghanaians awaiting repatriation.
Concerns Over Suspended Registration and Future Steps
A significant point of contention raised by the Minority is the status of the evacuation registration process. Jinapor expressed alarm over reports that the registration for further evacuations has been suspended.
“There are legitimate questions to be asked: why has registration been suspended? When will it resume? What logistical constraints led to the suspension? What measures are being put in place to protect them while they remain there?” he questioned. These queries underscore a perceived lack of transparency and urgency in addressing the needs of the broader Ghanaian population in South Africa.
The Minority stressed that approximately 1,500 Ghanaians remain registered and seeking assistance for evacuation. The suspension of registration, they argue, leaves these individuals in a precarious position, especially given the volatile situation in South Africa.
Implications for Citizen Welfare and Government Accountability
The criticism from the Minority highlights a broader debate about government priorities during international crises. It questions whether the focus should be on public perception and celebratory gestures or on the practical, often challenging, logistics of ensuring citizen safety and welfare abroad.
The call for downplaying public relations and intensifying substantive work suggests a demand for greater accountability and efficiency from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The situation in South Africa, marked by rising xenophobia and attacks on foreign nationals, necessitates a swift and effective response that prioritizes the safety of Ghanaians.
Looking Ahead: Continued Scrutiny and Action
As further evacuation flights are anticipated, the focus will likely remain on the government’s ability to manage the process efficiently and transparently. The Minority’s stance indicates that parliamentary and public scrutiny will continue, demanding clear answers regarding the suspended registration and concrete plans for the remaining estimated 1,500 Ghanaians seeking repatriation. The effectiveness of the government’s response in the coming weeks will be closely monitored, particularly concerning its capacity to handle larger-scale operations and ensure the well-being of all its citizens abroad amidst ongoing security concerns.
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