John Ntim Fordjour, Member of Parliament for Assin South and a prominent voice in Ghanaian politics, has strongly condemned the recent wave of deportations of Ghanaian citizens from the United States, urging the government to take immediate action to protect the human rights of these individuals and ensure their smooth reintegration into society upon their return.
In a stirring statement made before the House, Hon. Fordjour expressed his deep concern over the plight of the 156 Ghanaians who have been deported in recent months, emphasizing the “alarming and deeply troubling” nature of the situation. He revealed that, since the start of 2025, the U.S. has been cracking down on undocumented immigrants, resulting in the forced removal of thousands, including many long-term residents who have contributed positively to American society.
“It is not just the scale of these deportations that is distressing, Mr. Speaker,” Fordjour said, “but the inhumane treatment our citizens are enduring at U.S. detention centers before their forced removal.” The MP described reports of overcrowded, unsanitary conditions in holding facilities, as well as allegations of physical and verbal abuse, lack of legal representation, and denial of medical care. “These are our brothers and sisters,” he declared. “We simply cannot turn a blind eye to their suffering.”
Fordjour stressed that it is imperative for the Ghanaian government to take swift diplomatic measures to address the situation. “Our citizens deserve fair treatment,” he said. “It is essential that our government demands accountability from U.S. authorities regarding the treatment of deportees before their return to Ghana.”
He also called for more robust diplomatic engagement, urging the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to “strengthen its efforts to negotiate humane and appropriate deportation processes” in order to protect the fundamental rights of Ghanaian immigrants.
As Hon. Fordjour highlighted, many deported individuals return to Ghana with little or no resources, making their reintegration into society a daunting challenge. Many of these deportees have spent the majority of their lives in the U.S. and will struggle to find work or integrate into the Ghanaian community without support.
“It is crucial that the government establish structured reintegration programs,” he proposed, “including job placement initiatives, skills training, and mental health and psycho-social support for returnees.” He stressed that such programs would help ensure that the deportees are not left to “suffer in silence” and that they have the resources and guidance they need to rebuild their lives in Ghana.
One of the most heartbreaking aspects of these deportations, according to Hon. Fordjour, is the impact on families. He described the devastating consequences of parents being separated from their children and spouses left in uncertainty. “These mass deportations are tearing families apart,” he said. “I strongly urge the government to work through our embassies in the U.S. to facilitate family reunification processes and ensure those affected have a clear legal pathway to reconnect with their loved ones.”
The call for swift and compassionate action comes at a critical time, with hundreds of Ghanaians facing deportation and struggling to find a way forward. Fordjour’s statements are a reminder to the government and the public that the welfare and dignity of Ghanaian citizens, both at home and abroad, must remain a top priority.
“I urge this House and the government to take immediate action to address this pressing issue, our citizens deserve nothing less” He concluded
