A Political Scientist at the University of Ghana, Dr. Kwame Asah Asante has emphasized Ghana’s need to respect individual rights and handle matters involving deportees appropriately to uphold the country’s image, particularly its standing as a member of ECOWAS.
Speaking on the AM Show on JoyNews, Dr. Asante’s comments followed widespread public concern over reports that deportees from the United States were allegedly subjected to poor treatment and inhumane conditions upon their return. Many have criticized the government’s handling of the situation and its potential impact on Ghana’s international reputation.
Dr. Asante urged the government to proceed cautiously, linking the treatment of individuals to Ghana’s wider regional and continental standing.
“Even you accepting the people in here, there are places that you are enjoying. So I will urge the government not to do anything to dent that image. It’s, if you look at the basis for having African, who are you and all those things, is to make sure that we see ourselves as one people, with one destiny and a people who are together,” he explained.
He further noted that the humane treatment of deportees is crucial given the deep-rooted relationships built across the continent.
“On the basis of this, people have built partnership, friendship all over. So we must guide our steps carefully. Sometimes, some of the actions you take, it can be lawful, but the approach can also bring in a whole lot of things that could create all manner of problems,” he added.
In conclusion, Dr. Asah Asante’s warnings emphasizes that the poor treatment of deportees is not just a domestic issue, but a matter of foreign policy and regional image. By neglecting individual rights and demonstrating an inhumane approach, the government risks damaging the credibility and partnership built on the ideals of ECOWAS and continental unity.
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Story by Lawrencia Draffor | univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by Deborah Owusu
