The Minority in Parliament has strongly criticised the government’s deportation agreement with the United States, accusing the Executive of bypassing parliamentary oversight.
The backlash follows a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between Ghana and the US to facilitate the repatriation of certain deportees. According to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the deal has already led to the return of 14 individuals, with 40 more expected.
Mr. Ablakwa defended the agreement, stressing that the MoU is not a binding treaty but a working framework that falls within the Executive’s constitutional mandate. He added that:
- The arrangement underwent Cabinet and Attorney General review.
- It includes strict security vetting measures.
- If elevated into a formal treaty, it would be brought before Parliament in line with Article 75 of the Constitution.
Despite this explanation, the Minority insists the deal should have involved broader consultation from the outset due to its security and diplomatic implications.
Speaking at a press conference, Samuel Jinapor, Ranking Member of the Foreign Affairs Committee, expressed frustration that MPs were not briefed beforehand:
“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.”
The Minority is demanding greater transparency and parliamentary involvement to ensure that international agreements do not erode Ghana’s democratic checks and balances.
