The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has defended the government’s decision. Ghana accepted African nationals deported from the U.S. without seeking parliamentary approval first. He explained the arrangement is based on a non-binding memorandum of understanding (MoU). Therefore, it does not require ratification. Ghana has received 54 African deportees so far 14 in the first batch and 40 more. The government says the decision is purely humanitarian.
Members of the Minority criticised the move. They argue Parliament should have approved it first. Speaking in the House on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, Ablakwa said MoUs like this are routine diplomatic work. Also he added that because they are not legally binding, they do not need parliamentary scrutiny. “If you look at the work we do at the Foreign Affairs Ministry, on a daily basis, we could sign about 50 MoUs. If we were to bring MoUs which are not legally binding to Parliament, it would be impractical,”. “Our foreign policy will grind to a halt, and we will not be able to function. Notes of understanding, note verbale, cannot be treated as agreements or treaties, as we have been well advised by the Attorney General.”
AlsoAblakwa, who is an MP for North Tongu, said the Attorney General informed the ministry of legal action. Oliver Barker-Vormawor filed the action. He said we should be guided in our public discussions. He emphasised that Ghana’s acceptance of the deportees does not compromise national sovereignty. It aligns with the country’s long-standing humanitarian commitments in the sub-region.
