Member of Parliament for Abirem, Charles Asuako Owiredu, has called for a coordinated African response to recent xenophobic attacks involving Ghanaians in South Africa, urging stronger diplomatic action beyond routine condemnations.
Speaking on a current affairs programme, the former Ghana High Commissioner to South Africa argued that statements alone are not enough to curb the recurring violence and intimidation targeting foreign nationals.
“It is not enough for South Africa and its police to issue a statement condemning it. We must involve other Ambassadors in South Africa and involve the African Union to pursue this issue,” he said.
He stressed that a united diplomatic front—particularly involving the African Union—would place greater pressure on authorities to ensure accountability and prevent future incidents.
“Once they see that we have this united front, they will deal with these acts,” he added.
Meanwhile, Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has confirmed that the South African government has expressed regret over the incidents and pledged to investigate the attacks.
According to him, Ghana is actively engaging its South African counterparts to ensure the safety of its citizens, with firm diplomatic discussions already underway.
The developments come amid renewed concerns over the safety of foreign nationals in South Africa, where periodic outbreaks of xenophobic violence have continued to strain regional relations.
