A group of concerned Ghanaian youth and citizens have petitioned President John Dramani Mahama, Parliament, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to take urgent diplomatic action over recent xenophobic attacks targeting foreign nationals, including Ghanaians, in South Africa.

The petition, dated June 1, 2026, was addressed to President Mahama, Speaker of Parliament Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, and Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.

Signed by Actchilles-Dugah Seyram, the petition expressed concern over the safety and welfare of Ghanaians living in South Africa amid growing anti-immigrant protests and attacks allegedly linked to groups such as “March and March” and “Operation Dudula.”

According to the petitioners, over 900 Ghanaians in South Africa have reportedly registered for emergency evacuation, while about 300 had already been airlifted back to Ghana as of May 27, 2026.

The group also cited videos circulating on social media allegedly showing Ghanaians being harassed and ordered to leave their homes and businesses, adding that Ghana’s High Commission in Pretoria had earlier advised Ghanaian nationals to remain indoors and temporarily close their businesses ahead of planned protests.

The petitioners argued that the attacks violate principles of continental integration and free movement under the African Union and Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

They further claimed that many Ghanaian traders, mechanics, hairdressers, and small business owners in South Africa had suffered significant economic losses after being forced to abandon their businesses and investments.

Among the key demands contained in the petition is a call for the Government of Ghana to summon the South African High Commissioner for a formal explanation and assurances regarding the safety of Ghanaians living in the country.

The group also urged the government to consider reviewing diplomatic relations with South Africa, including the temporary suspension of some bilateral agreements until the safety of Ghanaian nationals is guaranteed.

Other proposals include imposing reciprocal visa restrictions on South African nationals entering Ghana, auditing South African businesses operating in Ghana for compliance with the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre Act, and establishing a victim support fund for affected Ghanaians.

The petitioners additionally called on Parliament to hold an emergency debate on the matter and appealed to the African Union Peace and Security Council to investigate and sanction xenophobic violence on the continent.

While stressing that they do not support violence, the petitioners maintained that Ghana must take firm steps to protect its citizens abroad and demonstrate that attacks against Ghanaians would not be tolerated.

They argued that Ghana’s foreign policy should prioritise the protection of citizens and respond firmly whenever the lives and livelihoods of Ghanaians are threatened outside the country.