Some citizens from the Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas) have, however,
read xenophobia in the plans. As the Ghana authorities try to tighten the laws on immigration, some of the Ecowas citizens engaged in retail trade have complained about unfair treatment.“The Ecowas protocol is clear on citizens from the community and their rights of abode in member countries and, therefore, what the Ghanaians are doing border on xenophobia,” said Lucky Eze, a Nigerian trader. Despite this, the Ghanaian authorities have made up their mind, and have set a June 30 date to flush out the illegal immigrants engaged in the retail business. The authorities cited- The Ghana Investment Promotion Centre Law, Act 478, Clause 18, which stipulates that “the sale of anything whatsoever in the market, petty trading, hawking or selling from a kiosk at any place is a wholly reserved activity for Ghanaians”
This, they say, is line with the country’s investment regulations. The rules restrict retail businesses to Ghanaians only.
However a special task force to implement the directive has already been put in place by the Ministry of Trade, and it is reported that those to be worst affected are Nigerians and Chinese who have numerous shops in Accra city centre and its environs.
To show they meant business, On May 16, officials of the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) arrested two Chinese for engaging in commercial activities. After the arrest, the officials said: “It was in line with the Ministry of Trade and Industry’s national policy to get rid of foreigners in the country’s retail business.”
“There is a growing perception and reports that the country is being flooded by illegal immigrants,” said Aboah, adding: “The issue of their entry into the country is being questioned. Some managed to acquire work permits through the back door while others continue to stay in the country illegally.”
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I am a Nigerian and i must say it the way i see it, what Ghana govt is trying to do it very good for their country, the only thing is if they are violating the ECOWAS agreement. Otherwise let them go ahead and flush out any illegal immigrants they think violate the laws of their land, so they can organize their country for their citizens. ''A stitch in time save nine'' they say.
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@frank no matter how u paint it.this guys are hostile people. just nt quite long they destroyed some of globacom mast there. smell the scent of xenophobia.
DeleteNa waaa 4 Ghana! This is r'lly wickedness 4rm ghana. Ghana pipo are in other parts of the world doin their biz. inshort Since thy discovered oil in ghana,,, no bodi dey hear word again 4rm dem. Ghana must go!
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