“Entire African Nation Supported Mexico Over South Africa at World Cup” – Hon. Ayeh Says Fan Reaction Proves Continent Rejects Xenophobia
Gladson Afriyie
Journalist
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Deputy Ranking Member of Parliament’s Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration Committee, Hon. Nana Asafo-Adjei Ayeh, says the entire African continent opposes xenophobic attacks in South Africa, pointing to public sentiment during the FIFA World Cup as proof.
Responding in Parliament to a statement by Majority Chief Whip Hon. Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, the Bosome Freho MP argued that Africa’s disapproval is already visible on the global stage.
*World Cup protest as evidence*
“There was a clear indication during the World Cup,” Hon. Ayeh said. “When South Africa played Mexico, the entire African nation was supporting Mexico against South Africa. That tells you that the entire African nation is against what is happening.”
He said the reaction showed continental frustration with recurring xenophobic violence and hostility toward fellow Africans.
Hon. Ayeh stressed that no African country supports xenophobia, but insisted that immigration enforcement is a state function. “If somebody is in your country illegally it is not for you the citizen to walk them out. The government must take action,” he stated.
The MP urged South African leaders to issue strong public statements and take decisive steps to halt the attacks. He also cautioned Ghana against “social media diplomacy,” warning that public spats could endanger the estimated 49,000 Ghanaians still in South Africa.
