ACCRA – The Minority in Parliament has criticised the government over its recent deportation agreement with the United States, describing the move as another attempt by the Executive to bypass parliamentary oversight.
The criticism comes in response to a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between Ghana and the United States, which allows the repatriation of certain deportees to Ghana.
The deal has already seen 14 individuals returned, with 40 more expected, according to the Minister of Foreign Affairs.
In defence of the agreement, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, clarified that the MoU does not require immediate parliamentary ratification, as it is not a binding treaty but a working framework under the Executive’s mandate.
He stressed that the arrangement includes strict security vetting measures and complies with Ghana’s Constitution, ECOWAS protocols, and Pan-African values, adding that the agreement had already been reviewed by Cabinet and the Attorney General, and that should the MoU be elevated into a formal agreement, the government would bring it before Parliament in accordance with Article 75 of the Constitution.
Despite the minister’s explanation, the Minority insists the matter should have involved broader consultation from the outset, particularly due to its potential security and diplomatic implications.
Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, Ranking Member of the Foreign Affairs Committee, Samuel Jinapor, expressed disappointment that Members of Parliament were not informed about the deal and only became aware of it through media reports.
“The fact that we, the minority members of the Foreign Affairs Committee, had to learn of this in the media is very disturbing and is consistent with attempts by the Executive to disregard the other arms of government,” Jinapor said.
Source: citinewsroom.com
