'Pursue justice for xenophobia victims' - Bosome Freho MP urges government

The Deputy Ranking Member on Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee, Nana Asafo-Adjei Ayeh, has called for firm diplomatic measures against South Africa over the recurring xenophobic attacks targeting foreign nationals, including Ghanaians.

The Bosome Freho MP made the call in an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen, on May 27, 2026, shortly after 300 evacuated Ghanaians arrived home from South Africa.

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He described the situation as deeply troubling and urged African leaders and the African Union to treat the violence with the seriousness it deserves instead of handling it as routine diplomatic talk.

“When this issue started, I was even calling for the closure of some of the embassies so that it demonstrates to South Africans that this thing is unbecoming,” he said.

Nana Asafo-Adjei Ayeh expressed fear that the attacks could worsen if nothing concrete is done.

“I won’t be surprised if we wake up one day and they apprehend all foreign nationals, put them in a room and set them ablaze,” he stated.

The lawmaker reminded South Africa of the significant support African countries, especially Ghana, gave them during the anti-apartheid struggle.

“The freedom South Africa is enjoying, they didn’t get it alone. We all fought for it. Ghana just didn’t fight, we even supported with our money,” he stressed.

He accused some South African politicians of fanning anti-foreigner sentiments for political gain.

“The individual politicians involved are making political campaign promises with it to embolden their base, so they are not able to deal with it as they should,” he said.

The MP also raised alarm over reports of police inaction during attacks.

“You sometimes see videos with police present but doing nothing about the attacks. So, it tells you clearly that the South African government itself cannot deal with the issue,” he added.

Nana Asafo-Adjei Ayeh called on African nations to speak with one voice and apply tougher diplomatic pressure.

“We must tell South Africa that we are not happy,” he stated.

He further urged the African Union to push for continental resolutions and possible legal action to ensure justice for victims.

“We can take this matter up as a country to get justice for our people who have suffered these brutalities,” he said.

The lawmaker advised Ghana to properly document all cases involving affected citizens for possible international legal action.

“If we are able to document our evidence well and put all the facts together, we can pursue this case at the international court,” he noted.

He emphasised that simply bringing victims home is not enough for those who have lost everything.

“Any Ghanaian who suffered any loss and now has to start from ground zero reparation package alone is not enough for such a person. You must let him have justice beyond bringing me back home,” he added.

NA/VPO