Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has questioned Ghana’s handling of recent tensions involving Ghanaian nationals in South Africa, warning that the response risks making a sensitive situation worse. Speaking to the press, Malema said Ghana’s reaction came at the wrong time and in the wrong way, arguing it could deepen divisions and create unfair perceptions about entire communities.
“The Ghana response was not necessary, and it now creates a perception that we are all like that,” he said, cautioning that such narratives could stigmatise sections of society and complicate law enforcement efforts. He argued that with emotions running high, a measured diplomatic approach would have given South African authorities the space needed to manage developments on the ground.
“We don’t think Ghana responded in a manner that really enforces dialogue and diplomatic engagement. It creates a very bad, extreme situation,” Malema said, adding that Ghana should have held back its response to allow South Africa time to handle the matter internally.
Malema confirmed that authorities are still engaging stakeholders to stabilise conditions and protect affected Ghanaian nationals. “We are persuading government to still act on this, and we are saying they must give us time,” he stated, adding that legally documented Ghanaian migrants who feel unsafe should be able to approach law enforcement without fear.
He also referenced firsthand accounts from affected individuals, including a Ghanaian woman who described alleged mistreatment and a lack of police intervention. While acknowledging the emotional toll of the crisis, Malema insisted such experiences should not drive hasty diplomatic decisions. “This is an emotional issue for many of them, and I understand that,” he noted.
The remarks come amid ongoing diplomatic engagement and a wider public debate over Ghana’s pledge to facilitate the voluntary return of its nationals, following reported xenophobic attacks in parts of South Africa.
