The Minority Caucus on Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee is demanding direct presidential talks. They want President John Dramani Mahama to speak with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. This call comes after new reports of xenophobic attacks on Ghanaians and other African nationals in South Africa.
In a statement released on Tuesday, April 29, the caucus highlighted incidents in KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, and Gauteng. These events show a disturbing trend of violence against foreign nationals. Ghanaian traders and residents have specifically been targeted. Ghanaian-owned businesses have been attacked. Individuals have suffered harassment and assault.
These renewed concerns arrive amid a history of xenophobic violence in South Africa. Such incidents have previously affected citizens from Ghana, Nigeria, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique. The caucus links these attacks to false claims about foreigners causing crime or economic hardship. They strongly reject these accusations, calling them baseless.
Samuel Abu Jinapor, the Ranking Member on the Foreign Affairs Committee and MP for Damongo, signed the statement. He pointed to the widely shared assault of Emmanuel Asamoah as evidence of the situation’s severity. The statement noted that some attacks reportedly occurred despite the presence of law enforcement officers. These officers allegedly failed to intervene effectively.
The Minority acknowledged the efforts of Ghana's Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa. He has engaged with South African authorities and provided consular support to affected Ghanaians. However, the caucus insists that these actions are not enough. They stated that "measurable action" is now required.
Beyond presidential talks, the Minority calls for additional consular support for Ghanaians in affected areas. They also want the matter formally escalated to the African Union. A coordinated ECOWAS response is also requested. The caucus urges Ghana to seek concrete outcomes, including arrests and prosecutions.
Practical protection measures for foreign nationals and possible compensation for victims are also demanded. The caucus advised affected Ghanaians to remain cautious and stay in contact with the High Commission. Their safety is described as paramount.
President Ramaphosa has publicly condemned these attacks. Yet, the Minority stressed that statements alone are insufficient. These are seen as necessary first steps. Decisive follow-up measures are urged.
The economic impact of such attacks can be significant. Businesses owned by Ghanaians may suffer direct losses from damage or looting. Disruption of trade and economic activity affects livelihoods. The sentiment of insecurity can deter future investment and trade between African nations. Such events undermine regional economic integration efforts.
This situation underscores the fragility of inter-African relations. The caucus emphasized that ties between African countries must be built on solidarity. Mutual respect and shared responsibility are crucial principles. These must be upheld in practice, especially during difficult times.
The demand for high-level intervention highlights serious concerns about the safety of Ghanaian citizens abroad. It also reflects a desire for greater accountability from South African authorities in addressing these recurring issues.