Ghana Refutes Claims of Detained US Deportees, Confirms Transfers
Ghana's government firmly denies claims of detained US deportees, confirming all 14 individuals have been transferred to their home countries, amid international legal scrutiny and regional cooperation efforts.
Ghana's presidential spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu addresses media on deportee transfer status
In a firm stance on recent deportation controversies, Ghanaian authorities have strongly rejected claims that four African immigrants deported from the United States remain in detention on Ghanaian soil, maintaining that all deportees have been successfully transferred to their home nations.
Official Clarification on Deportee Status
Ghana's presidential spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu confirmed to the Associated Press that all 14 deportees have been properly processed and returned to their respective countries. This development follows Ghana's successful coordination of the deportee transfer program, which saw 13 Nigerians transported by bus and one Gambian national via air travel.
Legal Challenges and International Concerns
The situation has sparked significant debate about Ghana's role in regional migration management, particularly as lawyers representing four Nigerian nationals filed court documents in the U.S. claiming their clients remained in Ghanaian detention. However, Ofosu categorically denied these assertions, stating, "None of them are staying in this country. Nobody is being held in any camp and nobody's right has been abused."
Regional Cooperation and Leadership
This incident highlights Ghana's emerging position in handling complex international migration issues. As Ghana demonstrates its commitment to regional cooperation, the country joins other African nations like Eswatini, Rwanda, and South Sudan in managing deportee transfers from the United States.
U.S. Court Decision and International Implications
U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan's decision not to intervene, while expressing concern about potential persecution risks, underscores the complex nature of international deportation processes. The judge noted that while she was "alarmed and dismayed" by the situation, her jurisdiction did not extend to Ghana's sovereign decisions.
"The government's cavalier acceptance of Plaintiffs' ultimate transfer to countries where they face torture and persecution" remains a significant concern, stated Judge Chutkan.
Edwin Gyimah
Ghanaian journalist, covering African affairs for the past 10 years.