Ghana's Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemns the killing of Bashiru Isak during anti-immigration protests in South Africa.
Image: TIMOTHY BERNARD Independent Newspapers
The Government of Ghana has strongly condemned the killing of a Ghanaian national in South Africa during the June 30 anti-immigration demonstrations, describing the incident as a “senseless act of violence” and calling for the swift arrest and prosecution of those responsible.
Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it had received reports of the fatal shooting of 44-year-old Bashiru Isak during demonstrations linked to what it described as ongoing xenophobic attacks.
“The Government of Ghana condemns, in the strongest terms, this senseless act of violence and the rising tide of xenophobia targeting African nationals, including Ghanaians, in South Africa,” the ministry said.
The ministry added that “the taking of any life is unacceptable and those responsible must be brought to justice without delay.”
Ghana’s High Commission in Pretoria has formally lodged a protest with South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation and has also filed a complaint with the South African Police Service (SAPS).
The diplomatic interventions were undertaken after Ghanaian authorities confirmed the identity of the deceased and informed his family. The ministry said an autopsy had since been conducted at the request of the Ghanaian government.
Ghana is now demanding “a full, transparent and expedited investigation leading to the arrest and prosecution of the perpetrators.”
The ministry further called on South African authorities to strengthen protections for foreign nationals living in communities affected by recent tensions.
“We also reiterate our call on the South African authorities to ensure enhanced protection for all Ghanaian nationals in affected communities,” ministry said.
The ministry stressed that South Africa has a responsibility to safeguard the rights and safety of all people within its borders.
“South Africa, in line with its international obligations, will guarantee the safety, dignity and rights of all foreign nationals on its territory, including Ghanaians.”
The latest diplomatic protest comes as Ghana continues to push for action at a continental level. The ministry revealed that a petition previously submitted to the African Union Commission regarding xenophobic attacks against African nationals in South Africa remains active.
“Our formal petition on xenophobic attacks against African nationals in South Africa remains active, and we expect the AU to treat the matter with the urgency it demands at its next statutory meeting,” the ministry said.
Meanwhile, arrangements are underway to repatriate Isak’s body to Ghana for burial.
The ministry extended its condolences to the victim’s relatives, saying it offers “its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased during this difficult time.”
Ghanaian nationals residing in South Africa have also been urged to remain vigilant, avoid areas considered high-risk and seek assistance from the Ghana High Commission should they require emergency support.
The June 30 demonstrations, which took place in several parts of South Africa, were centred on concerns around illegal immigration.
Authorities have since been investigating a number of incidents linked to the protests, including reports of attacks on foreign nationals and foreign-owned businesses.
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