The minority caucus on Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee has urged the government to secure concrete assurances from the South African government following a wave of xenophobic attacks targeting Ghanaians and other African nationals.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, April 29, the Minority expressed grave concern over reports of organised violence in areas including KwaZulu-Natal, Durban and Gauteng, where Ghanaian-owned businesses have been attacked and individuals subjected to harassment and assault.
The caucus rejected claims that foreign nationals are responsible for crime and economic hardship, describing such justifications as unfounded and dangerous.
They cited the widely circulated assault on Emmanuel Asamoah as evidence of the growing threat, while raising concerns about the apparent failure of some law enforcement officers to intervene during such incidents.
While acknowledging steps taken by Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, including engagement with South African authorities and provision of consular support, the minority stressed that more decisive action is needed.
They also noted the condemnation of the attacks by Cyril Ramaphosa, but insisted that statements must be backed by tangible outcomes.
The caucus appealed to the South African government to ensure the immediate arrest and prosecution of perpetrators, as well as to take practical steps to guarantee the safety of foreign nationals.
On Ghana’s part, the Minority is calling for stronger diplomatic action, including direct presidential engagement between John Mahama and President Ramaphosa to secure firm commitments on protection and enforcement.
They 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 to coordinate a unified regional response.
“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. The Minority will continue to press for a response that reflects both the seriousness of the situation and the dignity of our people,” the statement added.
