Ghana’s Response Was Unnecessary – Malema

The leader of one of South Africa’s main opposition parties, Julius Malema, has criticised Ghana for repatriating its nationals following xenophobic violence and protests targeting foreign nationals in South Africa.

Anti-migrant groups in South Africa have persistently demanded the deportation of black migrants. In recent weeks, attacks on both documented and undocumented foreigners have intensified.

In response, Ghana has appealed to the African Union (AU) for an intervention, called for condemnation of the violence, mediation, and stronger protections for migrants across member states.

The West African country also repatriated about 300 of its nationals from South Africa on Wednesday.

Malema, speaking to News Central on Thursday, said Ghana’s response sends the wrong message.

“The Ghana response was not necessary because it now creates an impression that we are all like that when it is a section of our society that needs to be contained by law enforcement. And one Ghanaian lady was saying, you see, the problem is, and I wouldn’t have taken this option,” he said.

“The problem is we’re being beaten in front of the police and the police are not doing anything. That’s a problem. And when this opportunity came for me to leave, I left because if the police can’t defend me, it means the state is in agreement with the people who are beating me. So we think it was too quick.”

The South African opposition leader also said the Ghanaian government should have allowed more time for authorities to address the situation, and stressed the need for continued diplomatic engagement.

According to Malema, Ghana’s response did not reinforce dialogue and diplomacy, but instead risked escalating tensions.

“And we are pursuing and persuading government to still act on those few. And we’re saying to them, they must give us some time. They must be patient,” he said.

“And those who don’t feel safe, especially legally documented Ghanaians, should be able to run to police stations for safety. They will then be directed to the appropriate places where they will be secured.”

Malema has been a long-standing critic of xenophobic attacks in South Africa and has warned that they risk deepening divisions between South Africa and the rest of the continent.

He has argued that such violence could reinforce colonial-era boundaries and fractures that continue to shape relations within Africa today.