South Africa's xenophobia linked to apartheid past, says NDC communications team member Hamza Suhuyini
via GhanaWeb5 min read
Hamza Suhuyini, a member of the National Democratic Congress communications team, stated that South Africa's unique colonial and apartheid history must be considered when analyzing xenophobic attacks. Speaking on April 23, 2026, Suhuyini emphasized that South Africa's experiences are distinct from other African nations, citing the lasting psychological and social impact of its past. He referenced Richard Dowden's book 'Africa: Altered States, Ordinary Miracles' to highlight the country's complex history. Suhuyini argued that the nature of colonialism in South Africa was more entrenched, creating deep-rooted divisions and a culture of isolation that continues to influence societal attitudes. He noted that decades of systemic segregation under apartheid conditioned citizens to accept separation, and these enduring effects cannot be ignored in current discussions. His comments follow renewed concerns over xenophobia, including a viral video showing South African nationals confronting a Ghanaian over their right to reside in the country.
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The Ghana Medical Association GMA has called for the immediate reinstatement of the Chief Executive Officer of the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital KATH, giving the government three working days to reverse the suspension. This demand follows an emergency meeting of the GMA's National Executive Council on June 6, 2026, after the Minister of Health directed the KATH Board to suspend the CEO. The GMA, in a statement signed by its President, Prof. Dr Ernest Yorke, asserted that KATH management's actions to address congestion at the hospital's Accident and Emergency Centre were appropriate and aligned with international best practices. The association rejected claims that patients were abandoned, stating that measures ensured affected patients received care elsewhere. The GMA argued that the initial query and subsequent suspension directive against the CEO were unjustified. The association also expressed full support for the ongoing industrial action by doctors at KATH, stating the strike should continue until the suspension is withdrawn and measures are implemented to improve emergency care capacity in Kumasi. Furthermore, the GMA criticized the conduct of Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, accusing him of actions that have negatively affected health workers and urging him to adopt a more collaborative approach. The GMA warned of further action if the situation persists.
Samuel Nartey George, Ghana's Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, affirmed the Mahama administration's commitment to protecting press freedom but cautioned against the deliberate spread of false information. Speaking at the 2nd Ghana Journalists Association GJA World Press Freedom Day Honours Night, the minister, representing President John Dramani Mahama, stated that fake news and coordinated disinformation threaten national stability and public trust. He clarified that the government does not intend to silence critical voices or investigative reporting, acknowledging that democratic leadership must accommodate scrutiny. However, he warned that the state would address individuals and platforms intentionally disseminating fabricated stories that could cause panic, division, and confusion. George rejected the notion that regulating misinformation constitutes censorship, arguing that regulatory frameworks are instruments of order necessary for any democracy. He highlighted that no journalist has been exiled, arbitrarily detained, or had a media house shut down under the current government for exposing wrongdoing, indicating President Mahama views criticism as integral to democratic governance. The minister also noted Ghana's improvement from 52nd to 39th in the Reporters Without Borders World Press Freedom Index, attributing this partly to expanded digital infrastructure and internet access. He emphasized the importance of protecting and promoting di
Must ReadSouth Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, has refuted claims made by Ghana's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, regarding Ghanaians injured in recent xenophobic unrest. Ablakwa stated in a June 6, 2026 interview that at least 15 Ghanaians sustained severe injuries, with one female victim remaining in critical condition, and that there was a willingness to compensate for harm caused. Lamola, reacting on X on the same date, said his ministry had not received official information confirming such figures and described Ablakwa's interview as "deeply disappointing" and "replete with misinformation." He noted that Ghana’s High Commissioner in South Africa had not formally communicated any such cases to his office. Lamola also challenged claims that two Nigerians and five Mozambicans were killed in the attacks, stating that no Nigerian national has been confirmed dead and that while two Mozambican nationals' deaths are under investigation, the claim of five is untrue. He emphasized the importance of accurate reporting and verified information.