Ranking Member of the Foreign Affairs Committee of Parliament, Samuel A Jinapor
The Ranking Member of the Foreign Affairs Committee of Parliament, Samuel A Jinapor has called on the government to adopt a more restrained and strategic diplomatic approach as tensions grow between Ghana and Israel over recent deportations involving citizens of both countries.
Jinapor, speaking in response to the fallout from the deportation of Ghanaian nationals from Tel Aviv and subsequent deportation of three Israelis who arrived in Accra on 10 December, said the Minority supports any legitimate effort to defend Ghanaians abroad but warned that the situation requires careful diplomatic handling.
“Any effort by the Government of Ghana to protect the interest of Ghanaians abroad and safeguard the dignity of Ghanaians should be welcomed,” he said.
“The Minority welcomes such effort by the government to defend the rights of our citizens abroad.”
However, he urged the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, to adopt a more discreet approach at a time when public commentary risks inflaming tensions.
“It is important that we call on the Minister for Foreign Affairs to take the path of quiet, calm and strategic diplomacy in dealing with some of these matters,” Jinapor stressed.
The Ranking Member reiterated that Ghana and Israel have maintained diplomatic relations for more than six decades, with Ghana becoming the first African country to formalise ties with Israel in 1956.
Against this backdrop, Jinapor said it was essential to preserve Ghana’s credibility as a nation known for balanced and principled foreign policy engagement.
The political temperature rose further after Ablakwa stated publicly that Israel had apologised for the treatment of Ghanaian deportees, a claim swiftly denied by the Israeli Embassy in Accra, triggering concern about mixed signals from the government.
“His conduct and public row as Minister for Foreign Affairs is becoming one too many. The issue relating to the apology and denial by the Israeli Embassy is very disturbing and potentially embarassing”.
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The Damongo lawmaker warned that the Minister’s current posture may heighten an already sensitive situation to the detriment of Ghana’s broader national interest.
“Ghana’s foreign policy response must be guided by sound judgement, prudence and measured engagement through the appropriate diplomatic channels,” he affirmed.
Jinapor stressed that the Minority will raise the issue on the floor of Parliament and demand answers from the Miinister for Foreign Affairs.
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