The South African government has accused Ghana of contributing to what it describes as a campaign aimed at isolating South Africa internationally over its handling of illegal immigration concerns.
Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya made the claim during a media briefing at the Union Buildings, saying Pretoria had observed efforts over the past two months to portray South Africa as a country being rejected by other African nations because of its immigration policies.
According to him, the campaign followed criticism of anti-illegal immigration protests and the ongoing voluntary repatriation of undocumented migrants.
Mr. Magwenya said South Africa remains committed to working with African countries and rejected claims that it had become isolated because of its immigration enforcement measures.
He accused unnamed actors of spreading misinformation and misrepresenting diplomatic engagements involving South Africa and other countries.
When asked whether Ghana was the country being referred to, the Presidency spokesperson confirmed that Pretoria had raised concerns directly with Ghana’s High Commissioner.
He said South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation had engaged the Ghanaian diplomat and urged him to verify information before making public statements.
The comments follow tensions between the two countries after Ghana raised concerns over the treatment of Ghanaian nationals amid anti-immigration protests in South Africa.
South Africa has maintained that it remains committed to protecting the rights of foreign nationals while enforcing its immigration laws.
