The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has revealed that Ghana is considering pursuing legal action against South Africa over the xenophobic attacks that have affected Ghanaian nationals in that country.
According to the minister, government believes the issue goes beyond evacuation and immediate safety concerns — it must also include accountability for the losses suffered by victims. He stressed that Ghanaians who lost property, livelihoods and income as a result of the attacks deserve justice and compensation.
Speaking on Joy FM on Saturday, June 6, Ablakwa said Ghana has formally communicated its position to South African authorities and expects concrete steps to address the concerns of affected citizens.
“We are also considering formal legal action in competent international courts on this matter. We have made it clear that the matter does not end with the evacuation of Ghanaians. There has to be accountability and there has to be a price to pay.
“We have told the South Africans that we expect them to take responsibility and compensate our nationals. The only action we have seen on their part is with the Ghanaians who were hospitalised. They approached us that they are willing to take care of the medical bills.”
Ablakwa emphasised that the protection of Ghanaian citizens abroad remains a top priority for government. He added that Ghana’s diplomatic missions continue to engage South African authorities and closely monitor developments to ensure the safety and welfare of Ghanaians.
Xenophobic violence has been a recurring problem in South Africa, often fuelled by tensions over jobs, economic opportunities and access to public services. Foreign nationals from several African countries have repeatedly been targeted, drawing widespread condemnation from governments, civil society groups and international organisations.
— Citi Newsroom
