The Minority Caucus on Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee has criticised the Government over the postponement of the planned evacuation of Ghanaians living in South Africa amid renewed xenophobic tensions in the country.
According to the Minority, the delay in carrying out the evacuation exercise raises serious concerns about the Government’s preparedness and handling of issues affecting the safety and welfare of Ghanaian citizens abroad.
In a statement signed by the Ranking Member on the Foreign Affairs Committee and Member of Parliament for Damongo, Hon. Samuel A. Jinapor, the Minority said the Government’s explanation that the postponement was due to legal and logistical requirements was unacceptable.
The statement noted that recent xenophobic incidents in South Africa had created fear and uncertainty among foreign nationals, including Ghanaians, following reports of intimidation and attacks.
The Minority explained that after Government announced plans to evacuate affected citizens, hundreds of Ghanaians reportedly registered with Ghana’s High Commission in Pretoria in anticipation of support and assistance.
“From the moment these disturbing reports first emerged, the Minority consistently called for swift, coordinated and decisive action in the interest of our citizens,” the statement said.
However, the Caucus expressed disappointment that after public assurances and announcements, the evacuation exercise had been postponed, arguing that legal and logistical concerns should have been addressed before commitments were made.
The Minority further stated that the development highlights what it described as growing concerns over the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ approach to issues of citizen protection and foreign affairs management.
It urged Government to act with urgency and provide regular updates to affected citizens and the general public while ensuring that all necessary measures are taken to safeguard the welfare, dignity and safety of Ghanaians living abroad.
The statement stressed that the protection of citizens outside the country remains a fundamental responsibility of Government.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
