The government must pursue justice and compensation for Ghanaians who lost their lives, businesses and properties in attacks in South Africa, Deputy Ranking Member of Parliament’s Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration Committee, Nana Asafo Adjei-Ayeh, has said.
Nana Asafo Adjei-Ayeh made the call while speaking to journalists about the government’s evacuation of affected Ghanaians from South Africa.
He said the evacuation was an important first step. However, he stressed that the government must now focus on the losses suffered by victims.
“This exercise did not begin with accounting. It began because Ghanaians feared for their lives and livelihoods in South Africa,” he said.
Nana Asafo said some Ghanaians lost their businesses and properties during the attacks. Others were assaulted, while some lost their lives.
He also reminded the government of its earlier commitment to seek compensation and accountability for affected citizens.
“Government previously said it would pursue compensation and accountability for affected citizens. We therefore also ask for an update on that commitment,” he said.
Nana Asafo Adjei-Ayeh wants the government to explain what has been done to support victims and their families.
He is seeking details on the number of compensation claims registered and the value of business and property losses documented.
He also wants the government to disclose what formal representations have been made to the South African authorities.
In addition, he is asking for information on any investigations or prosecutions linked to the attacks.
“How many claims have been registered? What value of properties and business losses have been documented? What formal representation has been made to the South African authorities? What investigation or persecutions are known to the government? And what is the present pathway to compensation or restitution for affected Ghanaians?” he asked.
Nana Asafo said bringing affected Ghanaians home should not be the final step in the government’s response.
He believes the government must follow up with diplomatic action and measures to help victims recover their losses.
“Bringing home people was the first duty. Pursuing justice for what happened to them is also part of their state responsibility,” he said.
