The Member of Parliament for Bosome Freho, Honourable Nana Asafo-Adjei Ayeh has stressed the need for Ghana to balance diplomatic decisions with the protection of citizens living in South Africa. He said the welfare of thousands of Ghanaians abroad remains an important factor in assessing relations between both countries.
Addressing the situation, Honourable Ayeh revealed that about 60,000 Ghanaians currently live in South Africa while only a fraction have been evacuated following xenophobic incidents. He explained that the safety of the remaining citizens should remain a priority for the government.
The Ranking Member stated that Ghana’s relationship with South Africa carries significant economic and diplomatic value. He argued that decisions affecting bilateral relations must take into account the many areas of cooperation between the two countries.
Moreover, he called for high level dialogue between Ghana and South Africa to resolve emerging challenges. He warned that decisions driven by public pressure without proper engagement could affect efforts to achieve lasting solutions.
“We have a lot of things in common, we are doing a lot of things and we have a lot of engagement going on. We need proper and high level engagement on these matters between the two countries.”
Honourable Nana Asafo-Adjei Ayeh
Honourable Ayeh also criticised the response of President Cyril Ramaphosa to xenophobic groups in South Africa. He stated that the actions and public communication from South African authorities after incidents involving Ghanaian citizens needed closer examination which was never provided.
He referenced engagements between President Ramaphosa and the groups linked to xenophobic activities, including the March and March movement. The MP said such developments had shaped perceptions about the commitment of South African authorities to addressing the issue.
However, he emphasised that Ghana’s approach must be based on complete information before any final position is adopted. He explained that the Minority Caucus and relevant parliamentary committees would require detailed briefings to properly evaluate the situation.
In addition, Honourable Ayeh said Parliament must have access to the reasons behind Ghana’s position and the circumstances surrounding President Ramaphosa’s planned visit. He noted that such information would allow lawmakers to either support government’s position or offer recommendations.
He highlighted that business relations, diplomatic engagements and the presence of Ghanaian citizens in South Africa remain key considerations. The MP said these factors should guide discussions between both countries.
Furthermore, he urged stakeholders to avoid reactions based solely on public narratives. He explained that diplomatic matters require detailed analysis and constructive discussions to protect national interests.
Honourable Ayeh reiterated that Ghana’s engagement with South Africa remains important despite recent tensions. He called for transparency, dialogue and careful decision making to strengthen cooperation while addressing challenges affecting citizens.
Establishing the Understanding For The Diplomatic Visit
Honourable Nana Asafo-Adjei Ayeh called for clarity on the circumstances surrounding the postponement of the Ghana South Africa Bi-National Commission and reports that South African President Cyril Ramaphosa was refused entry into Ghana. He said proper diplomatic communication must be examined before conclusions are drawn on the development.
Discussing the matter, Honourable Ayeh explained that official visits between governments are guided by formal correspondence outlining the purpose, timing and expectations of engagements. He stated that without access to such communication, it would be difficult to determine the reasons behind the decision.
The Ranking Member noted that diplomatic relations require careful consideration, especially when dealing with sensitive issues between countries. He stressed that understanding the full context of President Ramaphosa’s proposed visit would provide a clearer basis for assessing the situation.
Furthermore, Honourable Ayeh linked the matter to the ongoing tension surrounding xenophobic attacks involving African nationals in South Africa. He recalled that Ghana’s government and Parliament had previously raised strong objections over incidents affecting Ghanaian citizens.
He indicated that authorities had taken steps through diplomatic channels, including engagements with the African Union, to highlight the seriousness of xenophobia on the continent. The MP added that discussions between Ghana’s Foreign Minister and South Africa’s Foreign Minister had also taken place following the tensions.
“The xenophobic issue is a high tension issue. I want to know exactly what the President of South Africa is seeking to come and do in Ghana. When you situate it in the context of the heated argument, then you understand the position of government.”
Honourable Nana Asafo-Adjei Ayeh
Honourable Ayeh stated that the situation requires careful diplomatic handling due to its potential impact on relations between the two countries. He explained that Ghana’s response must consider both national interests and the wider relationship with South Africa.
According to the MP, the postponement of the engagement should be assessed within the context of existing tensions and ongoing discussions. He maintained that more details from government would help stakeholders better understand the reasons behind the decision.
Additionally, he pointed out that Ghana and South Africa have maintained longstanding cooperation in several areas. He said any diplomatic action involving the two countries must be approached with a full understanding of its possible implications.
The Ranking Member further emphasised that public discussions around the matter should be guided by verified information. He noted that diplomatic issues often involve complex considerations that require careful engagement.
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