The Minority in Parliament is demanding an urgent briefing from the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, over reported government efforts to evacuate Ghanaian nationals from South Africa following renewed xenophobic attacks.
The call was made by a member of the Foreign Affairs Committee, Patrick Yaw Boamah, who said Parliament must be fully briefed to avoid misinformation and ensure a coordinated diplomatic response.
Speaking on the floor of the House, Mr Boamah noted that an estimated 25,000 to 30,000 Ghanaians live in South Africa, stressing the need for clear and consistent communication from the Foreign Ministry.
He said timely engagement with Parliament would help promote transparency and prevent conflicting accounts of the situation.
Mr Boamah also pointed to the long-standing diplomatic and economic ties between Ghana and South Africa, highlighting major South African investments in Ghana such as MTN, Stanbic Bank and Gold Fields, which he said have contributed significantly to jobs and revenue.
According to him, Parliament has a role in supporting the executive to safeguard these relations and ensure that any emerging tensions are properly handled through formal diplomatic channels.
He further referenced recent public statements from South African officials, suggesting possible inconsistencies that may require clarification through direct diplomatic engagement.
Mr Boamah also raised questions about the evacuation process, including how many Ghanaians have been reached so far and the fate of those who did not register.
He noted that many Ghanaians in South Africa hold senior positions across various sectors, including local government, security and finance, warning that the situation could have wider implications if not carefully managed.
The Minority MP stressed that parliamentary oversight would help ensure a calm and constructive approach to resolving the issue.
While acknowledging that both countries may have legitimate concerns, he said Parliament could play a key role in helping to bridge differences and support a diplomatic resolution.
He therefore urged the leadership of Parliament to invite the Foreign Minister to brief the House, noting that the matter has lingered for over a month without clear updates.
According to him, greater parliamentary engagement is needed to address the issue and prevent unnecessary pressure on Ghana’s diplomatic relations with South Africa.