Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has announced that the government will relocate a Ghanaian national, Emmanuel Asamoah, who was recently caught up in a xenophobic attack in South Africa.
According to the Minister, the decision follows serious security concerns after a viral video of the incident circulated widely online, exposing the victim’s identity and leading to threats and online harassment.
“We have taken the decision to relocate him and support his resettlement at full cost,” he said.
He further explained that the relocation destination will be kept confidential for security reasons.
Mr. Ablakwa revealed that the victim, who was initially traumatised by the incident, is currently cooperating with authorities and continues to receive consular assistance from Ghana’s diplomatic mission.
He also clarified that investigations carried out so far confirm that Emmanuel Asamoah is a legal resident in South Africa.
“This gentleman is not an illegal migrant. He is law-abiding,” he stressed.
The Minister commended South African authorities for their response to the incident, noting that an official apology had been issued and investigations assured. He also disclosed that Ghana’s High Commissioner was invited to a meeting with the South African Vice President, where further apologies were extended.
He added that South African authorities have reiterated that immigration enforcement remains the responsibility of the police, not civilians, and have condemned xenophobic attacks.
Despite these engagements, Mr. Ablakwa expressed concern over the recurrence of such incidents, warning that accountability remains weak.
He noted that while apologies are frequently issued, perpetrators are rarely punished — a situation he believes fuels repetition of the attacks.
“We are demanding swift investigations and sanctions to serve as a deterrent,” he said.
The Minister cautioned that continued inaction could embolden further attacks against African migrants, stressing the need for stronger enforcement and accountability.
Ghana, he assured, will continue engaging South African authorities to ensure justice is served and to prevent future occurrences of xenophobic violence.
