Parliament summons Foreign Affairs Minister over U.S. deportations
The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has been summoned to appear before Parliament on Friday, 28th February 2025, to address growing concerns over the deportation of Ghanaian nationals from the United States.
Lawmakers are demanding concrete measures to support deportees and improve migration management, following alarming reports of inhumane treatment in U.S. detention centres.
The call for parliamentary scrutiny was led by the Member of Parliament for Assin South, Reverend John Ntim Fordjour, who condemned the harsh conditions faced by Ghanaian deportees before their forced removal.
“These deportations are not just about numbers—they reflect a humanitarian crisis,” Rev. Ntim Fordjour stated in Parliament on Friday, 21st February.
“Our people are subjected to degrading treatment in U.S. detention facilities, and many struggle to reintegrate upon their return.”
He urged the government to take a firm stance on the issue and called for structured reintegration programmes, including job placement initiatives, to help returnees rebuild their lives.
Rev. Ntim Fordjour emphasised that many of those deported had spent most of their lives in the U.S. and now face immense challenges in adapting to life in Ghana without proper government support.
Parliament is expected to press the Foreign Affairs Minister for immediate action to protect Ghanaian citizens abroad and ensure humane treatment for returnees.
Background
On February 9, 2025, Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa confirmed that 156 Ghanaians are set to be deported from the United States as part of the U.S. government’s intensified crackdown on illegal immigration.
This development follows stricter policies under President Donald Trump, which target undocumented immigrants.
In response, Mr. Ablakwa assured that the Ghanaian government is actively working to support affected citizens.
He announced plans to establish a Consular Support Fund to assist Ghanaians facing deportation or other emergencies abroad.
“We recognise the hardships faced by our citizens overseas, particularly those affected by deportation. To address these challenges, we are creating a consular fund to provide immediate support,” he stated.
The fund will offer financial aid, emergency assistance, and logistical support to stranded Ghanaians, reinforcing the government’s commitment to their welfare and safe repatriation.
As plans for the fund progress, the ministry urges Ghanaians abroad to seek assistance from their nearest embassies or consulates. Authorities also reaffirm their dedication to monitoring deportation cases and ensuring affected individuals receive necessary consular support.