The Minority in Parliament has criticised the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, over the ongoing evacuation of Ghanaians from South Africa, accusing him of turning the exercise into a “public relations spectacle” instead of prioritising the swift and effective evacuation of affected citizens.
The comments come amid the government’s evacuation exercise for Ghanaians who registered to return home following renewed xenophobic tensions in South Africa.
According to official figures reported by major outlets, about 300 Ghanaians were initially evacuated in the first phase.
In contrast, more than 800 others reportedly registered for voluntary repatriation through Ghana’s High Commission in Pretoria.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has explained that the evacuation is being carried out in phases due to logistical and diplomatic requirements, including screening processes, documentation checks, and coordination with South African authorities.
Speaking to the media, Minority members insisted that the communication surrounding the exercise has overshadowed its core humanitarian objective.
“The focus should be on results, not publicity. This is not the time for a PR spectacle,” the Minority said.
The Minority also argued that the government must ensure clearer communication on timelines, eligibility, and the scheduling of evacuation flights, stressing that many Ghanaians remain stranded and anxious in South Africa.
They further urged the Ministry to prioritise efficiency and transparency in subsequent phases of the evacuation, insisting that affected citizens deserve timely updates and certainty.
Ranking Member on Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee, Samuel Abu Jinapor, also added his voice to the debate, saying Ghana has historically evacuated its citizens in times of crisis and that the current exercise should not be portrayed as extraordinary.
“The efforts the government is making are welcomed and commendable,” Jinapor said, while noting concerns about the pace and early “hiccups” in the evacuation process.
He further urged the government to intensify efforts to ensure all affected nationals are safely brought home, stressing that the welfare of citizens must remain the priority.
The Foreign Affairs Ministry, however, maintains that the process is structured and ongoing, assuring that no registered Ghanaian who wishes to return will be left behind.
“No Ghanaian who wishes to return home will be left behind,” a Foreign Affairs official said.
