By: Ebenezer Adu-Gyamfi / Emmanuel Ayiku for GhanaianNewsCanada | May 28, 2026
Member of Parliament for Bosome Freho has called on the Government of Ghana to go beyond evacuation efforts and actively pursue justice for Ghanaians affected by xenophobic attacks in South Africa.
The lawmaker argued that while repatriation measures are necessary to ensure the safety of citizens, authorities must also prioritize accountability for victims who reportedly suffered physical harm, emotional trauma, destruction of businesses, and loss of property during recent anti-immigrant unrest.
Speaking on the growing concerns surrounding xenophobic violence, the MP stressed that evacuating citizens should not mark the end of government intervention, insisting that justice and possible compensation for affected individuals must also form part of Ghana’s diplomatic response.
According to him, many victims may have lost years of investment, employment opportunities, and personal belongings during attacks, making it important for government to engage South African authorities through diplomatic and legal channels to ensure accountability where wrongdoing is established.
The comments come amid renewed anti-immigrant tensions in parts of South Africa, where foreign nationals from several African countries have reported intimidation, violence, and growing fears over personal safety. Ghana has already begun facilitating voluntary evacuation flights for citizens seeking to return home as part of emergency support measures.
The Foreign Affairs Ministry has indicated that more evacuation flights are expected in the coming days following increased registrations by Ghanaians wishing to leave South Africa. Authorities say hundreds of citizens have already expressed interest in returning home due to concerns over insecurity and uncertainty.
The Bosome Freho MP further emphasized the importance of protecting the dignity and rights of Ghanaian citizens abroad, arguing that diplomatic engagement must not only focus on crisis response but also justice, legal protections, and long-term assurances for victims.
The situation has reignited public debate over xenophobia in South Africa and the responsibility of African governments to collectively address recurring violence targeting migrants within the continent. Analysts say the growing concern could place additional pressure on regional institutions to strengthen protections for African migrants and improve cross-border diplomatic cooperation.
