Former Tema East MP Titus Nii Kwartei Glover has criticised the South African government over its handling of recent xenophobic attacks against foreign nationals.
Speaking on JoyNews’ AM Show on Monday, May 25, he described the government’s response as disappointing and inadequate.
According to him, authorities in South Africa have failed to take proactive steps to protect migrants, including Ghanaians living in the country.
His comments come as the first group of Ghanaians in South Africa prepares to return home on Wednesday.
Mr. Glover said many Ghanaians living outside major cities such as Pretoria and Johannesburg may struggle to access evacuation support.
“The Foreign Minister should have taken his time a bit because, as we speak now, some of these Ghanaians are beyond Pretoria and Johannesburg,” he said.
“Even access to public transport to reach the embassy to register is a problem. So how do you reach these people?”
Mr. Glover blamed the South African government for what he described as a lack of urgency in dealing with the attacks.
“President Cyril Ramaphosa has disappointed some of us. The South African government has not been up and doing,” he stated.
He also alleged that authorities had failed to intervene in some attacks involving foreign nationals.
“You see Ghanaians being beaten, and they stand aloof and watch,” he claimed.
The former deputy transport minister also reflected on Africa’s support for South Africa during the anti-apartheid struggle.
“Everybody in Africa contributed to making sure you are who you are today,” he said.
“They gave you money, scholarships and passports to move around these African countries.”
Mr. Glover further appealed to President John Dramani Mahama to reconsider the operations of South African mining companies in Ghana.
“I will appeal to President Mahama that next year the licences of those South African companies should never be renewed,” he said.
He added that he would support demonstrations and personally join protests if the attacks continue.
