‘GH¢49m is not an account’ – Minority demands breakdown of South Africa evacuation cost

Parliament's Minority faction is pushing for a detailed breakdown of the GH¢49 million the government reportedly spent to evacuate Ghanaians from South Africa following xenophobic attacks. The Minority argues that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' announcement of the total figure lacks sufficient specifics on how the money was allocated.

Speaking to journalists in Parliament, Nana Asafo-Agyei Ayeh, the Deputy Ranking Member of the Foreign Affairs Committee, criticized the broader figure as an inadequate account. He urged the government to reconcile the number of those evacuated, estimated at 1,964, with the spent amount. The Minority also seeks clarification on procurement processes for both chartered and commercial flights, including payments made to date.

While acknowledging the government's swift response, the Minority insists transparency must accompany the evacuation process. They demand a comprehensive list of flights used, the number of evacuees in each group, individual costs, and procurement procedures, supported by relevant documentation. Additionally, the Minority questioned the role of partners, particularly the utilization of GH¢16 million from businessman Ibrahim Mahama.

They are thus demanding greater transparency from the government and a detailed explanation of all financial and logistical arrangements surrounding the evacuation.