Government says it is considering proposals suggesting that the nation opens its borders to Ghanaians abroad.
Interacting with the media on Friday, the Information Minister, Pius Enam Hadzide indicated that a decision is yet to be taken on the idea.
“The experts who are advising the President at a meeting that he chairs himself every day will consider all these proposals.
“And a decision that will be in the best interest of the country as a whole will be taken,” he said.
The Deputy Information Minister noted that it would be risky to carry out the initiative, however, he trust the technical team will take a well calculated and balanced decision.
“As we speak, I am not aware of the decision that has been made to allow persons from outside of the country to enter here.
“But for now, the closure of the borders are still in force and I know that various scenarios are being considered.”
This comes after, the North Tongu MP, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa appealed to government for a temporary opening of Ghana’s borders.
He explained that this would allow Ghanaians stuck abroad to return home.
President Akufo-Addo ordered a closure of the country’s borders on March 21. By then, the country had recorded 21 cases of the Covid-19 pandemic with one fatality.
The President said the reason was to stop the importation of the virus into Ghana. All arrivals on the evening of the closure were mandatorily quarantined.
Of the over 1000 persons held, more than 100 tested positive for the new coronavirus, justifying the president’s decision.
But it has been six weeks since the borders were closed and some Ghanaians who are affected by the closure have grown weary.
Two weeks ago, two-time BET Award winner, Sarkodie, who is also stuck abroad implored President Nana Akufo-Addo to open the borders.
“Mr. president you’ve done so well with how you handling this pandemic, we appreciate your effort but please can we open the borders for at least a day or two in-between times for citizens stuck outside to get back pls,” Sarkodie tweeted.
Mr president @NAkufoAddo you’ve done so well with how you handling this pandemic , we appreciate your effort 🙏🏿 But please can we open the boarders for at least a day or two in between time for citizens stuck outside to get back pls 🙏🏿
— Sarkodie (@sarkodie) April 20, 2020
However, in President’s May Day address, he extended the border closure by a month.
He said the extension is to enable the country to contain the coronavirus pandemic which is wreaking havoc across the world.
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