Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has strongly refuted allegations that Ghana has profited from agreements with the United States on the deportation of Ghanaian citizens. He stressed that the government has never received financial benefits from such arrangements and has no intention of doing so.
Speaking at the Government Accountability Series in Accra on Monday, September 15, Mr. Ablakwa said deportation cases are managed strictly in line with international law and Ghana’s responsibility to protect the dignity of its citizens, not as a financial opportunity. “Let me state unequivocally that Ghana has not made and will not make financial gains from any deportation agreement with the United States. Our focus has always been the welfare, dignity, and fair treatment of our citizens,” he emphasized.
The Minister explained that his ministry continues to engage US authorities to ensure deportations are carried out fairly and humanely, with due process respected at every stage. He added that Ghana’s foreign policy under President John Dramani Mahama remains transparent, people-centered, and firmly anchored in citizen protection. “Our foreign policy is not for sale. It must always serve the people and protect their dignity. That is the Reset agenda, and that is what guides us in every engagement,” he declared.
Mr. Ablakwa cautioned against misinformation that could undermine public trust in Ghana’s diplomacy and highlighted ongoing efforts to safeguard Ghanaians abroad. These include the creation of student help desks in missions with large Ghanaian populations and swift interventions during crises overseas. He stressed that the administration’s approach puts people before profit, affirming: “The Mahama administration will not sacrifice the welfare of its citizens on the altar of misinformation or profiteering. We are determined to ensure that wherever Ghanaians find themselves in the world, their government stands with them.”
