Ghana will not become dumping ground for deportees — Mahama
President John Dramani Mahama has declared that Ghana will not become dumping ground for deportees, stressing that the country will never accept foreign nationals with criminal backgrounds. He said Ghana’s sovereignty, security, and stability remain firmly protected.
Speaking at the swearing-in of new Ambassadors and High Commissioners in Accra on October 1, Mahama rejected claims that cooperation with the United States weakens Ghana’s dignity. “Ghana will not, and I repeat, will not become a dumping ground for deportees, nor will we accept individuals with criminal records,” he stated firmly.
His comments followed public concerns after the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on September 17 that 40 more deportees from the U.S. were expected. Earlier, 14 deportees had already returned, prompting criticism from the Minority in Parliament, who argued that the process lacked transparency and oversight.
Government officials explained that the arrangement follows a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Washington. They said the MoU does not require parliamentary ratification and that it focuses on humanitarian support for West Africans stranded abroad.
Mahama clarified that Ghana screens every returnee before entry and ensures that the deal respects ECOWAS protocols and national interest. He described the move as a Pan-African commitment that strengthens dignity while safeguarding sovereignty.
Addressing the new diplomats, Mahama urged them to present Ghana abroad as a stable democracy, a trade hub, and a nation determined to create opportunities for its citizens. He called on them to share Ghana’s story with honesty and conviction.
