Ghana has turned down a request by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa to undertake a state visit, amid growing concerns over recent xenophobic attacks targeting Ghanaians and other African migrants in South Africa.
Diplomatic sources in both Accra and Pretoria report that the decision was influenced by the escalating attacks, which have forced the repatriation of about 1,000 Ghanaians, while hundreds more are reportedly waiting to be evacuated.
The situation intensified after reports emerged that a Ghanaian national was killed on June 30 during demonstrations led by groups protesting against African migrants. South African authorities, however, have disputed those claims, insisting the death was not connected to the anti-foreigner protests.
According to sources familiar with the discussions, Ghana’s decision was driven by two major concerns: the safety and welfare of Ghanaian citizens living in South Africa and the potential security implications surrounding President Ramaphosa’s visit to Ghana.
One diplomatic source explained that it would have been inappropriate to host a high-profile state visit while serious concerns remain over the treatment of Ghanaians in South Africa.
The source added that protecting Ghanaian citizens abroad remains a top priority for the government. Officials were also mindful of public sentiment in Ghana following the reported attacks and believed it would be difficult to predict how some members of the public might react to President Ramaphosa’s presence.
Ghana is reported to have formally conveyed its concerns to the South African government, urging it to take decisive action to curb the xenophobic attacks and ensure the safety of Ghanaian nationals before any future state visit can be considered.
President Ramaphosa had sought the visit as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral relations and hold discussions on issues of mutual interest between Ghana and South Africa.
Despite the postponement, diplomatic sources say relations between the two countries remain cordial, with both governments committed to maintaining their longstanding partnership.
Source: myjoyonline
