Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Benjamin Quashie, has strongly defended the government’s decision to evacuate Ghanaian citizens from South Africa, insisting the move was driven by safety concerns following reported incidents of violence and looting targeting foreign nationals.
His comments come after criticism from Julius Malema, leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), who argued that the evacuation was unnecessary and risked straining diplomatic relations between Accra and Pretoria.
Ghana Says It Engaged South African Authorities Before Evacuation
Quashie explained that Ghana did not rush into its decision, saying officials had engaged South African authorities repeatedly in an effort to stabilise the situation before any evacuation was ordered.
According to him, Ghana urged law enforcement agencies to take firmer action against individuals involved in alleged attacks and looting.
However, he claimed that the security response did not meet expectations, prompting growing concern in Accra.
Concerns Raised Over Repeated Incidents Across Provinces
The envoy also pointed to what he described as recurring disturbances across multiple regions, arguing that the pattern of events suggested insufficient enforcement on the ground.
He said Ghana had expected decisive arrests and stronger intervention to prevent repeat incidents, but maintained that similar disruptions continued despite earlier assurances and discussions with authorities.
Allegations of Inaction and Ongoing Harassment
Quashie further argued that there was frustration within Ghana’s diplomatic mission over what he described as a lack of accountability for those involved in the disturbances.
He claimed that individuals allegedly responsible for repeated acts of looting and harassment were not being detained, allowing tensions to persist and worsen over time.
Citizen Safety Framed as the Priority Behind Decision
Defending the evacuation itself, Quashie stressed that the safety of Ghanaian nationals was the central consideration guiding the government’s action.
He noted that many of those who returned to Ghana appeared relieved, saying their reactions reinforced the belief that the decision prioritised their wellbeing in a volatile environment.
Ghana Stands by Its Decision Despite Criticism
Despite the backlash from political figures in South Africa, Quashie maintained that Ghana acted appropriately under the circumstances.
He reiterated that, in his view, the evacuation was a necessary and responsible response to protect citizens, adding that the government remains confident in the decision taken.
