Ghana’s Minority presses for Mahama–Ramaphosa talks over attacks in South Africa
The Minority Caucus on Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee has called for swift and decisive action following a wave of xenophobic attacks targeting Ghanaians and other African nationals in South Africa.
In a press release issued on April 29, the group expressed grave concern over reports from areas including KwaZulu-Natal, Durban and Gauteng, describing what it said was a disturbing pattern of organised violence. According to the statement, Ghanaian-owned businesses have been targeted, individuals harassed and assaulted, and access to essential services disrupted in some instances.
The statement, signed by the Ranking Member of the Committee, Samuel Abu Jinapor, said the attacks were being justified by claims that foreign nationals were responsible for crime and economic hardship, which it rejected as unfounded.
"The assault on Emmanuel Asamoah, which has circulated widely, brings the reality of these attacks into sharp focus," the statement read. "Equally concerning are reports that some of these incidents have occurred in the presence of law enforcement without effective intervention. That raises serious questions about enforcement and accountability."
Acknowledgement of diplomatic steps
The Minority acknowledged measures already taken by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, including his engagement with South African authorities and efforts to provide consular assistance to affected Ghanaians.
It also noted the public condemnation of the attacks by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa.
"While these are necessary first steps, they must be followed by clear and decisive action," the statement said.
Calls for stronger intervention
The Caucus urged the South African government to ensure the swift arrest and prosecution of those responsible, hold security agencies accountable where they failed to intervene, and implement immediate measures to protect foreign nationals.
On Ghana’s part, the Minority called for high-level engagement between President John Dramani Mahama and President Ramaphosa, as well as enhanced consular support for citizens in distress.
It further urged the government to escalate the matter to the African Union for an urgent inquiry into recurring xenophobic violence, while also working with ECOWAS partners to present a coordinated regional response.
The statement also called for concrete assurances from South African authorities, including confirmed arrests, clear prosecutorial steps and a practical protection plan for foreign nationals, as well as consideration of compensation for victims.
Advice to Ghanaians
The Minority advised Ghanaians in affected areas to exercise caution and maintain close contact with the Ghana High Commission.
"Your safety is of paramount importance, and this matter will continue to receive the attention it demands," the statement read.
"The ties between African nations are built on mutual respect and shared responsibility. Those principles must be upheld in practice, especially at moments such as this. Ghana must therefore act with firmness and clarity to ensure that its citizens are protected, and that the values of cooperation and solidarity are not undermined."
Read the full statement below
