The Minority in Parliament is demanding that the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, appear before the House to brief lawmakers on Ghana’s diplomatic engagement with South Africa following the killing of Ghanaian businessman Bashiru Isak in Cape Town.
The caucus says Parliament must be updated on the government’s response to the incident and the diplomatic steps being taken to ensure the safety and protection of Ghanaians living in South Africa amid renewed concerns over attacks on foreign nationals.
Raising the issue on the floor of Parliament, the Deputy Ranking Member of the Foreign Affairs Committee and Member of Parliament for Bosome Freho, Nana Asafo-Adjei Ayeh, said legislators required an official briefing on the circumstances surrounding the incident and its implications for diplomatic relations between Ghana and South Africa.
“The young Ghanaian who was shot and killed in South Africa was brought to Ghana. This House has requested that the Minister for Foreign Affairs be scheduled to appear before the House to brief us on issues relating to the diplomatic relationship between Ghana and South Africa,” he said.
Mr Asafo-Adjei Ayeh noted that the widespread public discussion surrounding the incident, particularly on social media, had heightened the need for the government to provide clarity and reassure Ghanaians.
“We have been hearing a lot about the issue on social media, and I believe the Majority Leader should schedule the minister to appear before the House to brief us on Ghana’s relationship with South Africa,” he added.
Responding to the request, Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga said any decision for the Foreign Affairs Minister to address Parliament would depend on the nature and sensitivity of the matters involved.
“Whether or not the minister comes to brief the House on bilateral relations depends on the minister’s assessment of the sensitivity of the issues and whether they should be discussed,” Mr Ayariga stated.
The killing of Bashiru Isak has reignited concerns over the safety of Ghanaians living and working in South Africa, with many calling for stronger diplomatic engagement between the two countries and enhanced measures to safeguard Ghanaian citizens abroad.
The incident has also renewed calls for sustained cooperation between Ghanaian and South African authorities to investigate attacks involving foreign nationals and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.
Source: Wesleyannews.com
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