Pressure is indeed mounting on President Mahama to appoint a substantive Defence Minister amid a controversy surrounding the Ghana-US deportee deal. Critics argue that the agreement may violate international conventions and put lives at risk.
The Controversy Surrounding the Ghana-US Deportee Deal:
The deal allows the US to deport West African nationals to Ghana, which has sparked concerns about sovereignty and constitutional breaches.
Ghana’s President Mahama confirmed that 14 individuals, mostly Nigerians and one Gambian national, had already been flown into the country under this arrangement.
The Minority in Parliament has demanded the suspension of the deal, citing constitutional concerns and potential risks to national security.
Concerns Raised by Critics:
Constitutional Breach: Critics argue that the agreement was made without parliamentary approval, violating Article 75 of the Constitution, which requires international agreements to be laid before Parliament and ratified.
Sovereignty and Security: The deal may compromise Ghana’s sovereignty and security, particularly if deportees are sent back to their home countries where they may face persecution or torture.
International Conventions: The agreement may violate international conventions, such as the Refugee Convention and the Convention Against Torture, which prohibit the return of individuals to countries where they may face harm .
Calls for Transparency and Accountability:
The Minority in Parliament is demanding full disclosure and transparency regarding the agreement, including details on when it was reached and whether it has been laid before Parliament and ratified.
Critics are also calling for the government to prioritize the safety and well-being of deportees, ensuring that they are not sent back to countries where they may face harm .
