Regulation: Deportation Accord Between the U.S. and Ghana
A group of 14 individuals was recently deported from the United States to Ghana under an agreement between the two nations. This latest group increases the total number of deportees to 42, as confirmed by legal representatives.
Lawsuit Against the Accord
Democracy Hub, a legal advocacy group, has filed a lawsuit against the Ghanaian government. The group argues that the deportation agreement with the United States is unconstitutional, as it lacks approval from the Ghanaian parliament. Additionally, the lawsuit claims the agreement may contravene international conventions prohibiting deportation to countries where individuals may face persecution.
Government spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu stated that the attorney general would address the matter in court but declined further comments.
U.S. Deportation Policies
The U.S. administration has intensified efforts to deport migrants who have entered the country illegally, focusing on individuals with criminal records. Since July, multiple deportations to African countries have occurred under agreements established with at least five African nations.
Controversial Program
Rights organizations have criticized this deportation program, citing its lack of transparency and the potential for deportees to be sent to countries where they have no connections or legal recourse. Instances have been reported where deportees were sent to third countries despite their home countries’ willingness to accept them.
Specific Cases and Developments
- Last month, 14 West African immigrants were deported to Ghana, with some later sent to other West African nations such as Togo, Nigeria, and Mali.
- The U.S. initially deported five individuals to Eswatini in July, citing convictions for serious crimes.
- Subsequent deportations include individuals sent to South Sudan, Rwanda, and Ghana, with an agreement in place with Uganda.
- Currently, six deportees remain detained in South Sudan, while the location of seven deportees in Rwanda is undisclosed.
