Mpraeso Member of Parliamnet (MP) Davis Ansah Opoku has commended government for its handling of the evacuation of Ghanaians from South Africa following renewed xenophobic tensions that triggered the return of hundreds of citizens to Accra.
Speaking on the Channel One Newsroom after arriving at the airport to welcome some of his constituents among the first batch of returnees on Wednesday, May 27, the MP said the exercise demonstrated the need for national unity and support for citizens affected by difficult conditions abroad.
He described the emotions of the returnees as deeply moving, noting that many of them had travelled to South Africa in search of better opportunities but were now forced to return home under distressing circumstances.
“I think first of all, let me commend government for the handling of the exercise. Indeed, I was at the airport to welcome a few of my constituents and the excitement on their faces tells it all,” he said.
Mr Opoku said the experiences shared by some of the returnees highlighted the hardship they endured, including forced dispossession of belongings at low prices as they hurriedly left affected areas.
“I spoke to an old man and he told me that he came with nothing because he had to rush to come home. People were forced to sell their possessions at a very low price,” he said, describing the situation as troubling.
He added that it was unfortunate that Africans were treating one another in such a manner, especially in the context of regional unity and cooperation.
“I am surprised that South Africa will do that to its fellow Africans,” he stated.
The MP said he was particularly pleased that some of the returnees were from his constituency, adding that he appreciated the efforts of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other individuals who supported the evacuation process.
He further called for improved systems to account for Ghanaians living in South Africa and stronger protection for both those returning and those who may choose to remain abroad.
“All I am praying for is that we are able to account for every Ghanaian living in South Africa and provide enough protection for them,” he said.
He described the experience as a difficult moment, adding that it raised broader concerns about African unity and cooperation.
“Today was one of my low moments, and I think this whole idea of African unity has been defeated by what has happened,” he added.
The first batch of evacuees arrived safely in Accra as part of a government-coordinated exercise led by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ghana’s diplomatic mission in South Africa in response to rising insecurity and xenophobic attacks targeting foreign nationals.
