The Government of Ghana has confirmed that 188 of its nationals have been designated for deportation by the United States as part of a renewed immigration enforcement initiative under President Donald Trump’s administration. Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa announced at a press conference in Accra on Thursday, June 26, that U.S. authorities have formally notified the Ministry about the deportation list.
He assured the public that Ghana is actively cooperating with U.S. agencies to ensure that the repatriation process is conducted in a humane and dignified manner. “We have been officially informed about the 188 Ghanaians on President Trump’s deportation list,” Mr. Ablakwa stated. “Our embassies in New York and Washington are cooperating with U.S. counterparts, and travel certificates are being issued promptly.” He emphasised that Ghana will welcome all deportees with respect and has activated a comprehensive reintegration program in collaboration with the Ministry of the Interior and the Ghana Immigration Service.
“We will be at the airport to welcome our compatriots and ensure they are properly integrated,” he said. “This will be done discreetly to protect their dignity, especially since many are returning under distressing circumstances—some without personal belongings or savings.”
The announcement follows a report by The Washington Post, suggesting that the Trump administration is considering expanding its visa and travel restrictions to cover as many as 36 countries. This would mark a significant increase from the 19 nations affected during Trump’s first term. While Ghana has not been formally named in the expanded ban list, Mr Ablakwa indicated that the government is not leaving anything to chance.
“We’ve had very productive meetings with the U.S. State Department and White House officials. Ghana’s long-standing and strategic ties with the United States will count for something,” he said.
He reiterated that Ghana has consistently demonstrated goodwill in complying with U.S. immigration laws and expects to be treated fairly. “We are confident Ghana will not be treated like countries facing serious national security red flags. Our cooperation has been consistent, and we remain a responsible partner.”
Providing further details, Mr Ablakwa noted that 56 out of the 188 individuals listed have already been returned to Ghana, with the rest at various stages of processing. While acknowledging the U.S. government’s right to enforce its immigration laws, he called for respect for the rights and dignity of those being deported.
In a related development, the Minister also revealed that Ghana had recently collaborated with the United States in the arrest and extradition of suspects involved in a $100 million fraud case. “This level of cooperation underlines the maturity of our bilateral relationship,” he said.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it will continue to engage diplomatically to ensure that any actions taken by U.S. authorities are conducted in accordance with international human rights standards.
Source: GraphicOnline
