The Member of Parliament for Akwatia, Bernard Baidoo Bediako, has accused the South African government of failing to adequately respond to ongoing xenophobic attacks targeting foreign nationals in the country.
Speaking on Adom TV’s Badwam show, the MP said the continued attacks and the absence of visible action against perpetrators suggest that authorities in South Africa are not doing enough to protect foreigners.
“It is now clear that the attacks are being perpetrated by the South African government and people,” he stated.
According to him, he initially believed the violence was being carried out by isolated groups and expected the South African government to take decisive action against those involved.
“At the early stages, I condemned it and even said it was probably a group doing that, and we expected the government to put in place sanctions,” he said.
However, he argued that the situation has worsened without any meaningful intervention from authorities.
“They condemned it and vowed to take action, but till now, have you heard of any arrest or action against anyone?” he questioned.
The Akwatia MP said that if South Africa no longer wants foreigners within its borders, the government should openly communicate that position so African migrants can make informed decisions.
“If they no longer want foreigners in their country, they should make it clear so we advise ourselves,” he added.
Mr. Bediako further expressed disappointment in the silence of international bodies, including the African Union, over the attacks.
“It appears that international organisations are focused on other global issues while the AU remains silent on what is happening in South Africa,” he said.
“So if we spend money on conferences and cannot condemn such acts, then what are we doing?” he asked.
He also referenced Africa’s historical support for South Africa during the apartheid era, arguing that the country should be the last on the continent to witness xenophobic violence.
“With the history of South Africa, they are the last country to do this because other African countries contributed to where they are today,” he noted.
The MP expressed concern about the safety of foreigners currently living in South Africa, stating that many may no longer feel protected by the authorities.
“Clearly, I don’t think foreigners will get protection from the South African government, so people should advise themselves and start going back to their countries,” he said.
He added that any evacuation effort by governments would likely have to be voluntary, explaining that “you cannot force everyone to move.”
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