Ernesto Yeboah, the Commander-in-Chief of the Economic Fighters League (EFL), has advised Ghanaians against attacking South African businesses. This comes after reports of anti-Ghanaian attacks in South Africa. Yeboah spoke on Joy FM’s Ghana Connect programme on Friday, May 29. He stated that while anger is understandable, Ghana must act rationally, not emotionally.
Yeboah stressed that Ghana is not a lawless country. He warned that harming South African businesses, such as MTN and DStv, would hurt Ghana's global reputation. Such retaliatory acts would also hurt Ghana's business confidence. They would damage goodwill and Ghana's diplomatic standing. Yeboah called on the Ghana Police Service. They should issue a strong warning and act firmly. Anyone harassing South African businesses must be arrested. Ghana must remain a nation governed by law, he said. He urged the police to make this clear publicly.
The EFL leader also addressed the debate about Gold Fields' mining lease in Ghana. Yeboah rejected linking any decision on the lease to the xenophobia incidents. He stated that the EFL's stance on mining is long-term. They have consistently supported nationalisation of mining resources. This position has been held for the past 10 years. Any decision about Gold Fields should serve Ghana's national interest. It should not be an emotional reaction. Yeboah warned that connecting these issues would weaken Ghana’s international credibility.
Yeboah’s call for a measured response highlights a delicate balancing act for Ghana. The country must express solidarity with its citizens affected by xenophobia. However, it must also maintain stable economic and diplomatic ties. Many Ghanaian citizens work and live in South Africa. The reports of attacks have understandably caused public concern. The government repatriated citizens fleeing the violence. Benjamin Quashie confirmed over 400 Ghanaians were expected back.
The economic impact of damaging relations with South Africa could be substantial. South Africa is a major trading partner for many African nations. Businesses like MTN are significant employers and service providers in Ghana. Their operations contribute to the Ghanaian economy. The EFL's emphasis on national interest in resource management also reflects a broader sentiment. It aligns with calls for greater economic sovereignty. This is a recurring theme in Ghanaian economic discourse. The government faces pressure to act decisively on behalf of its citizens. Simultaneously, it must safeguard economic stability and international standing.