156 Ghanaians face imminent deportation from US

Some 156 Ghanaians are facing imminent deportation from the United States following an executive order signed by U.S. President Donald Trump to remove all “illegal” migrants from the country, Foreign Affairs Minister-designate Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has disclosed.
Addressing the issue during his vetting before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Friday, Mr. Ablakwa debunked reports suggesting that over 6,000 Ghanaians were at risk of deportation.
He clarified that while deportations were underway, the actual number was far lower than initially speculated.

Govt’s commitment to protecting citizens abroad
Mr. Ablakwa assured Parliament that the government was closely monitoring the situation and actively engaging with U.S. authorities to ensure that the rights of affected Ghanaians were protected throughout the process.
“We are taking a keen interest in this matter. Our consulate in the U.S. is working diligently to facilitate the deportation process while ensuring that the rights of Ghanaians are not violated. We are committed to making this exercise as smooth and humane as possible,” he stated.
The Foreign Affairs Minister-designate also emphasized the importance of Ghana’s diplomatic approach, noting that resistance to U.S. policies could have economic consequences.

“It is clear that President Trump is very serious about implementing this executive order. If you look at what happened to Colombia when its President refused to accept deportees, the U.S. immediately imposed trade sanctions, forcing Colombia to reconsider its stance. We must, therefore, employ a strategic approach to protect our national interests while safeguarding our citizens,” he explained.

Legal support and consular assistance
To provide further relief for affected Ghanaians, Mr. Ablakwa stated that the government was considering extending legal support to those facing deportation.
“These are our compatriots, and we must be concerned about their welfare. If legal assistance is required, we will provide it. We are not going to leave them to struggle on their own. The government and the people of Ghana care about their plight and will do everything possible to support them,” he assured.

Proposal for a consular fund
To better assist Ghanaians abroad in times of crisis, Mr. Ablakwa proposed the establishment of a Consular Fund, which would be used to provide legal and consular assistance to citizens facing deportation or other legal challenges in foreign countries.
“We need to set up a Consular Fund, and I am happy that the distinguished Minister of Finance is here. As we prepare the 2025 budget, I will appeal to his ministry to approve a dedicated budget line for this fund. This will ensure that financial support is readily available to offer legal assistance, secure better conditions for deportees, and uphold their rights,” he stated.
He emphasized that the fund would help ensure that deported Ghanaians were treated with dignity and had a fair opportunity to plead their case if they wished to remain in the U.S.
“At the very least, let’s do our best to ensure that if they have a legal basis to stay, they are allowed to remain. If they must return home, we will ensure they are received in a humane manner that respects their dignity and fundamental rights,” he concluded.

Govt to continue engagement with U.S. authorities
Mr. Ablakwa reiterated the government’s commitment to engaging the U.S. government on immigration issues, assuring Ghanaians living abroad that they would not be abandoned.
As deportation proceedings continue, the Foreign Affairs Ministry is expected to release further updates on measures being taken to assist affected citizens.