On November 3, 2026, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) staged a demonstration in Accra, Ghana, under the banner 'Yɛ Gye Yɛn Sika'. The march, which began at Spanner Junction, saw hundreds of party members converge on the principal streets of Accra before presenting a petition at the Jubilee House. The NPP demanded accountability and transparency regarding the evacuation of Ghanaians from South Africa. Deputy Presidential Spokesperson, Shamima Muslim, received the petition on behalf of the government.
The NPP accused Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, of incompetently managing the financial arrangements surrounding the evacuation exercise. According to the party, Ablakwa's handling of the situation was marred by a lack of transparency and accountability. The NPP's National Youth Organiser, Abanga Fuseini Yakubu, presented the petition and set a 14-day ultimatum for the government to respond to their demands. The party insisted that Ablakwa should resign or be dismissed.
The NPP's demands included the publication of original flight invoices, contracts, and the names of all intermediaries involved in the evacuation process. The party also called for the publication of the passenger beneficiary list and an independent audit of evacuation spending. Furthermore, they urged the President to instruct the Attorney-General to investigate the evacuation brouhaha. The NPP criticised Ablakwa's approach, describing it as more focused on propaganda than diplomacy.
Several NPP members and politicians expressed their frustration with the government's handling of the evacuation. Nana Asafo-Adjei Ayeh, NPP MP for Bosome Freho, criticised Ablakwa over alleged lapses in the evacuation of Ghanaians from South Africa. Paul Yandoh, former Ashanti Regional Communications Director of the NPP, also expressed frustration over the cost involved, describing it as too high.
Dr. Ayew Afriyie, a member of the NPP, added that Ghanaians in South Africa were in trouble and needed help, not profiteering from their situation. The NPP's demonstration reflects growing concerns among Ghanaians regarding the government's handling of the evacuation. The party's demands highlight the need for greater transparency and accountability in the management of public funds.
The evacuation of Ghanaians from South Africa was a complex operation that required careful planning and execution. However, allegations of mismanagement and lack of transparency have marred the process. The NPP's demands for accountability and transparency reflect the concerns of many Ghanaians who are seeking answers on the government's handling of the situation.
The government has yet to respond to the NPP's demands, but the party remains resolute in its call for accountability. The demonstration and petition presented to the Jubilee House underscore the NPP's commitment to ensuring that the government is transparent and accountable in its dealings. The outcome of the NPP's demands remains to be seen, but the party's actions have sparked a national conversation on the need for greater transparency and accountability in government.
Key points
- The NPP is demanding the resignation or dismissal of Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, over his handling of the evacuation.
- The party is also calling for an independent audit of evacuation spending and the publication of original flight invoices and contracts.
- The NPP's demands reflect growing concerns among Ghanaians regarding the government's handling of the evacuation.
