Minority Criticises Foreign Minister Over Evacuation Publicity

The Minority in Ghana's Parliament has voiced strong criticism against the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa. They accuse him of focusing too much on public relations, or 'PR spectacle', surrounding the recent evacuation of Ghanaians from South Africa. The group believes the government should be prioritising the needs of citizens still facing difficult situations abroad.

Samuel Abdulai Jinapor, Ranking Member on Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee, made these remarks following the arrival of the first group of 297 evacuees at Accra International Airport. He acknowledged the government's effort in bringing some Ghanaians back. However, Mr. Jinapor stressed that attention must shift to supporting the larger number of Ghanaians still stranded. He stated that the government needs to 'focus on delivering' and 'substantive work' rather than excessive ceremonies.

This situation touches upon Ghana's long history of repatriating citizens from crisis zones. Past governments have managed large-scale evacuations from places like Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Ukraine, as well as during the COVID-19 pandemic. Mr. Jinapor pointed out that during COVID-19, almost 9,000 Ghanaians were evacuated, a much larger number than the 300 celebrated from South Africa. He noted that around 1,500 Ghanaians are currently registered and eager to return from South Africa.

A significant concern raised by Mr. Jinapor involves reports that the registration for Ghanaians wishing to be evacuated from South Africa has been halted. He expressed the need for clear answers regarding the reasons for this suspension, the expected resumption date, and the logistical issues causing it. Furthermore, he seeks information on the support available to these citizens while they await their evacuation.

The evacuation is a response to the worsening security situation in South Africa, which affects Ghanaian nationals. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs intends to continue these repatriation efforts. The Minority, however, urges for a reduction in public relations activities and a greater concentration on the practical assistance required by every stranded Ghanaian. Their main goal is to ensure all citizens receive the help they need to return home safely.