Former Vice-President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia and his wife Samira Bawumia have been safely moved from Qatar to another country as tensions continue to rise across the Middle East, diplomatic sources have confirmed to JoyNews.
The relocation was coordinated by Ghanaian missions in the region following direct instructions from Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa. Embassy officials worked closely with host authorities to arrange discreet and secure travel for the former Vice-President, his wife and their entourage.
Operational details have been kept confidential for security reasons, but sources described the process as smooth and well executed.
In a related update, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed it is working around the clock to protect all Ghanaians living in or passing through affected parts of the Middle East. Embassies remain on high alert, ready to provide consular support and emergency assistance whenever needed.
The move comes against the backdrop of one of the most serious regional crises in recent years. The conflict escalated sharply after coordinated US-Israeli military strikes on Iran starting February 28, 2026. Those attacks targeted military sites and key leadership, prompting Iranian retaliatory missile and drone strikes that have spread across several countries.
The situation reached a critical point with the effective blockade of the Strait of Hormuz — a vital passage for about 20 percent of the world’s crude oil. Airspace closures in multiple Gulf states, widespread flight cancellations and growing uncertainty have severely disrupted travel and heightened risks for civilians and expatriates.
The United Nations has repeatedly warned that continued violence is worsening civilian hardship and making humanitarian access increasingly difficult.
Ghana has activated emergency protocols in response, including the evacuation of diplomatic staff from Tehran and other high-risk locations. The government has urged all citizens in the region to register with their nearest mission, avoid unnecessary movement and follow official advisories closely.
The safe relocation of Dr Bawumia and his wife underscores the priority placed on protecting prominent nationals during this volatile period. Authorities continue to monitor developments minute by minute, with a clear focus on ensuring the safety and well-being of every Ghanaian caught up in the crisis.
