Yaw Boagyan
The Alliance for Civic Action (ACA) has strongly condemned the alleged xenophobic attack and harassment of a Ghanaian citizen in South Africa, describing the incident as unlawful, disgraceful and a threat to African unity.
In a statement issued on Friday, the group reacted to a viral video showing a Ghanaian man being stopped, questioned and allegedly harassed on the streets by individuals said to be acting as immigration enforcers.
ACA said no private individual or group has the legal authority to assume the role of state institutions by targeting people based on nationality.
“This act reflects a dangerous descent into lawlessness, mob justice and xenophobic aggression,” the organisation said.
The group noted that the incident raises fresh concerns about recurring xenophobic attacks in South Africa and questioned the effectiveness of authorities responsible for maintaining law and order.
According to ACA, when institutions fail to act, unlawful groups often take advantage of the situation.
The organisation also described the incident as ironic, noting that many African countries, including Ghana, supported South Africa’s liberation struggle during the apartheid era.
ACA said such hostility toward fellow Africans amounts to a betrayal of Pan-African ideals and regional solidarity.
Demands for action
The group called for the immediate arrest and prosecution of all persons involved in the incident, especially those clearly identified in the viral footage.
It also urged the government of South Africa to publicly condemn the attack and implement measures to prevent similar incidents.
ACA further appealed to the government of Ghana to take urgent diplomatic steps to ensure justice and safeguard the rights of Ghanaians living abroad.
The organisation additionally called on the African Union to engage South African authorities and secure guarantees against future xenophobic violence.
Call for unity
ACA urged Africans across the continent to reaffirm the values of unity, tolerance and mutual respect.
“The future of Africa depends not on division, but on solidarity,” the statement added.
The group said it would continue monitoring developments and intensify advocacy efforts until justice is served.
Emmanuel Mensah
