Ghana’s Ministry of National Security has stated that any operation performed by the government to repatriate refugees to their home countries will be carried out in compliance with international procedures.
In response to reports that the Ghana Armed Forces are conducting a premeditated and targeted campaign to forcefully repatriate Burkinabe refugees from Ghana, the Ministry stated that the information is untrue and should be dismissed with disdain.
In a news release released on Thursday, July 13, the Ministry stated that all repatriation operations will be carried out without jeopardizing the rights of refugees and displaced people from neighboring countries.
“Contrary to claims that displaced Burkinabes are being forced out of Ghana, a repatriation process has been instituted at the reception centre to aid the movement of Burkinabes who wish to return to their country. The repatriation process is consistent with international protocols on the management of refugees and has so far, been implemented in collaboration with Burkinabe Immigration Authorities along the Ghana-Burkina Faso border,” the Ministry of National Security said in the release.
It added, “The Government of Ghana, while reaffirming its determination to safeguard the peace, stability and territorial integrity of the country, and promote the welfare of the citizens of the country, would continue to undertake the necessary operations without compromising values, such as respect for human rights, including the rights of refugees and displaced persons from neighbouring countries.”
Below is a copy of the release:
