Security analyst Andrews Asiedu Tetteh has observed that the xenophobic attacks targeting African nationals, including Ghanaians, in South Africa are neither a new phenomenon nor an isolated issue.
He noted that both Nigeria and Ghana have previously engaged in similar unfortunate actions, where citizens demanded that other nationals vacate their respective countries.
Mr Tetteh pointed out that Ghana has periodically pressured foreign nationals to exit the retail sector, though he acknowledged that the level of aggression in these instances remains lower than the violence seen in South Africa.
He further recalled historical precedents where Nigeria compelled foreign nationals, including Ghanaians, to leave.
These recurring incidents, he lamented, are deeply troubling and necessitate immediate diplomatic intervention.
The analyst emphasised that the safety and security of those currently under fire must be the primary concern.
He asserted that any proactive nation witnessing its citizens being victimised in such a manner would prioritise their immediate evacuation.
Regarding the urgency of the situation, he stated, “Any serious country would have quickly moved in to bring back their citizens from South Africa.”
Speaking on Nyankonton Mu Nsem on Rainbow Radio 87.5 FM, Mr Tetteh alleged that the South African government might be tacitly supporting the unrest.
He suggested that authorities might be turning a blind eye to the violence instead of making arrests, viewing the chaos as a tool to drive foreigners out.
He remarked, “The South African government may have endorsed the xenophobic attacks against African nationals indirectly as a means to have the foreigners out, and so they will look on instead of having the attackers arrested and prosecuted.”
Mr Asiedu Tetteh advised Ghanaians residing in South Africa to place their personal safety above all else.
When questioned about the potential role of ECOWAS in resolving the crisis, he expressed scepticism, arguing that the regional body exists primarily on paper and offers little practical assistance. Consequently, he maintained that affected nations must take independent, decisive action to protect their people.
He described South Africa as being on a “bridge of destruction”, citing the high prevalence of hard drugs, such as cocaine, as a significant factor.
He suggested that these social issues are prompting citizens to take the law into their own hands in an aggressive attempt to force foreign nationals out of the country.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana