Ghana did not benefit financially from US deportee arrangement – Ablakwa

Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has insisted that Ghana did not benefit financially from the recent US deportee arrangement, rejecting claims that the government gained money or material support from the deal.

Addressing the Government Accountability Series at the Jubilee House on Monday, September 15, Mr. Ablakwa said the US deportee arrangement was not based on financial incentives but on humanitarian grounds. He stressed that Ghana did not benefit in any way from the agreement.

“It is important to state that Ghana has not received any money, compensation or material benefit in relation to this understanding. Our decision is grounded purely on humanitarian grounds and principle,” Mr. Ablakwa emphasised.

The Foreign Affairs Minister’s clarification comes after sections of the opposition and sections of the public raised concerns about the deportation of some Nigerian and Gambian nationals under the US deportee arrangement.

Mr. Ablakwa, however, defended the government’s position, maintaining that the arrangement aligns with international humanitarian standards and has been handled responsibly to protect Ghana’s interests.

“Our sovereignty and security will never be compromised under any such arrangements,” the Minister stated firmly.

He further assured citizens that the government remains committed to safeguarding the dignity and safety of Ghanaians while fulfilling obligations within the global community.

The Minister’s comments are expected to calm growing tensions, as opposition lawmakers continue to demand clarity and transparency on the matter.

The first batch of deportees arrived in Accra this week under a new arrangement with the United States.

President John Dramani Mahama has confirmed that Ghana has received 14 West African nationals deported from the United States. The deportees, who arrived in Accra recently, included mostly Nigerians and one Gambian national.

Speaking at the Presidential Media Encounter at Jubilee House on Wednesday, September 10, the President explained that Ghana’s acceptance of the 14 West Africans deported from the US was in line with ECOWAS protocols on free movement.

“We were approached by the US to accept third-party nationals who were being removed from the US, and then we agreed with them that West African nationals were acceptable, because all our fellow West Africans don’t need a visa to come to our country,” President Mahama said.