Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah dedicated his life for South Africa liberation — CPP condemns xenophobic attacks
The Convention People's Party (CPP) has praised the government for its swift diplomatic response following reports of xenophobic attacks targeting Ghanaians and other African nationals in parts of South Africa.
The party also commended President John Dramani Mahama for approving the immediate evacuation of 300 Ghanaians affected by the attacks.
In a statement signed by the Acting National Chairman of the CPP, Moses Amadu Yahaya, the party lauded President Mahama and the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, for engaging South African authorities on the matter.
The statement further acknowledged assurances from South Africa’s Foreign Minister, Ronald Lamola, and the country’s Police Ministry to investigate the incidents and ensure that those responsible are prosecuted.
According to the CPP, the prompt actions taken by both governments reflect a commitment to protecting African citizens and maintaining the longstanding relations between Ghana and South Africa.
Condemnation of Xenophobic Attacks
The party said it had followed with grave concern reports and viral videos showing attacks on Ghanaians and other African nationals in KwaZulu-Natal and other parts of South Africa in recent days.
It condemned all forms of violence, intimidation, and discrimination against foreign nationals, describing such acts as inconsistent with the ideals of African unity and solidarity.
“As the party of Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah, who dedicated his life to the liberation of South Africa and the unity of Africa, the CPP condemns in the strongest terms all acts of violence against our brothers and sisters in South Africa,” the statement said.
The CPP noted that Ghana historically played a key role in supporting the anti-apartheid struggle by assisting the African National Congress (ANC) and other liberation movements during the apartheid era.
The party called on the South African government to guarantee the safety and security of all Ghanaians living in the country, including students, traders, and professionals.
It also urged authorities to arrest and prosecute individuals captured in viral videos assaulting foreign nationals in order to deter future attacks.
The CPP further appealed to the African Union (AU) to activate its Continental Early Warning System and convene an emergency session on xenophobia, which it described as a growing threat to Africa’s development agenda.
Advice to Ghanaians in South Africa
The party advised Ghanaians residing in South Africa to remain calm, avoid confrontation, and report incidents to the South African Police Service and Ghana’s High Commission in Pretoria.
It also encouraged Ghanaians in the country to register with the High Commission to facilitate assistance and protection.
According to the CPP, the attacks underscore the need for African countries to deepen continental unity and cooperation.
The party stated that it would continue championing Pan-Africanism and raising concerns about xenophobia in its engagements across the continent.
The statement also called on political parties in both Ghana and South Africa to unite in condemning xenophobic violence.