Former Deputy Minister for Transport and former Tema East MP, Titus Nii Kwartei Glover, has criticised the South African government over its handling of recent xenophobic attacks targeting foreign nationals, describing the response as inadequate and disappointing.
Speaking on JoyNews’ AM Show on Monday, May 25, Mr Glover said South African authorities had failed to take proactive measures to protect foreign nationals, including Ghanaians, amid growing concerns over attacks on migrants.
His comments come as the first batch of Ghanaians living in South Africa is expected to return home on Wednesday following ongoing tensions.
According to Mr Glover, although evacuation arrangements are underway, many Ghanaians living outside major cities such as Pretoria and Johannesburg could face difficulties accessing support due to transportation and logistical challenges.
“The Foreign Minister should have taken his time a bit because, as we speak now, some of these Ghanaians are beyond Pretoria and Johannesburg. Even access to public transport to reach the embassy to register is a problem. So how do you reach these people?” he questioned.
Mr Glover argued that the situation demonstrates what he described as a lack of urgency by the South African government in addressing the attacks.
“That is why I am blaming the South African government for not being proactive. President Cyril Ramaphosa has disappointed some of us. The South African government has not been up and doing,” he stated.
He further alleged that authorities had failed to intervene in some incidents involving foreign nationals.
“You see Ghanaians being beaten, and they stand aloof and watch. They stand and watch and see how these foreigners are beaten,” he claimed.
Reflecting on Africa’s support for South Africa during the anti-apartheid struggle, the former lawmaker expressed disappointment over the current treatment of foreign nationals.
“Everybody in Africa contributed to making sure you are who you are today. They gave you money, scholarships, and passports to move around these African countries. Look at what they are doing, and the South African government is watching these things while our people are being beaten,” he said.
Mr Glover also appealed to President John Dramani Mahama to reconsider the operations of South African mining companies in Ghana, stating that he would oppose the renewal of their licences.
“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 over the issue and was personally prepared to participate in protests if the situation continues.
