A minority group of MPs on Parliament’s Overseas Affairs Committee has criticized the federal government for delaying plans to evacuate Ghanaians from South Africa amid rising xenophobic tensions.
In a press release signed by Damongo MP and rating member of the committee, Samuel Abdullahi Jinapor, the minority described the event as “very worrying” and questioned the federal government’s dealing with of the state of affairs.
The assertion adopted an announcement by the Ministry of Overseas Affairs {that a} deliberate evacuation train had been postponed because of authorized and logistical necessities.
Minorities say the delay has heightened anxiousness amongst Ghanaians dwelling in South Africa, as reviews of threats and assaults in opposition to foreigners proceed to unfold concern.
“New xenophobic incidents have occurred in South Africa in latest weeks, inflicting concern and anxiousness amongst many overseas nationals dwelling in South Africa, together with Ghanaians,” the assertion stated.
The report famous that the federal government itself had beforehand introduced plans to evacuate affected nationals and that a whole lot of Ghanaians had reportedly registered on the Ghanaian Excessive Fee in Pretoria in hopes of help.
Minorities stated they’ve persistently referred to as for “swift, coordinated and decisive motion” from the second the reviews first emerged.
“The safety of Ghanaians overseas is a elementary accountability of presidency,” the assertion burdened.
The caucus argued that the problems at present cited as causes for the postponement ought to have been addressed earlier than public ensures got.
“It’s due to this fact disappointing to be told that, after bulletins, assurances and public statements, the train has been postponed because of authorized and logistical necessities,” the assertion stated.
“Points like this could not change into an impediment throughout a disaster response.”
The Minority warned that latest developments strengthened rising considerations in regards to the Ministry of Overseas Affairs’ strategy to civil safety and disaster administration.
“Sadly, this newest improvement solely reinforces rising considerations in regards to the Division’s strategy to overseas affairs and civil safety points,” the assertion added.
The caucus additionally criticized what it stated was a niche between public bulletins and operational preparations.
“This highlights the significance of guaranteeing that publication is satisfactorily supported by the operational techniques obligatory for efficient implementation.”
The minority referred to as for pressing intervention, calling on the federal government to behave rapidly and supply common updates to affected residents.
“Behind each statistic are Ghanaians, households dwelling in concern and other people seeking to their nation for cover and safety,” the assertion stated.
The caucus reiterated its demand for the federal government to take “all obligatory measures” to guard the welfare, dignity and security of Ghanaians dwelling overseas.
