Pratt slams government over handling of Ramaphosa visit mishaps

Managing Editor of the Insight Newspaper, Kwesi Pratt Jnr, has criticised the handling of diplomatic engagements between Ghana and South Africa, describing the conversations surrounding the reported postponement of South African President Cyril Ramaphosa's visit as damaging and contrary to the ideals of African unity.

Speaking on Metro TV's Good Morning Ghana on July 8, 2026, Pratt said the public disclosure of confidential exchanges between the two governments had created a poor impression of Ghana's diplomacy.

"What is this? The optics are bad," he said, arguing that international relations are built on trust and that sensitive discussions between governments should not be leaked into the public domain.

Pratt questioned who leaked the communication and suggested the disclosure appeared intended to project the image that the Ghanaian government was standing up for its citizens in the wake of xenophobic attacks in South Africa.

He argued that such actions could undermine confidence in Ghana as a diplomatic partner, saying foreign governments may begin to question whether confidential conversations with Ghana can remain private.

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Pratt further stressed that Africa's long-term interests should take precedence over political posturing.

"African unity is an imperative. Without African unity, we are not going anywhere," he said, insisting that the response to xenophobic attacks should strengthen, rather than weaken, cooperation among African states.

According to him, African leaders should use diplomatic engagement to resolve disputes while keeping the broader objective of continental unity in focus.

He warned that actions which deepen divisions among African countries ultimately undermine efforts to free the continent from economic exploitation and dependence.

MRA/VPO

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