International Affairs and Political Analyst Nana Karikari says Ghana risks legal, security, and economic challenges as it prepares to receive 40 more deportees from the United States.

Speaking on JoyNews’ Up Front on Wednesday, September 24, Madam Karikari said the lack of clarity about the deportees’ backgrounds raises serious concerns.

“We do not know the background of these deportees, or even if we know, we haven't really dived deeper. Are they criminals? Do they have jobs? What exactly are these deportees coming to Ghana for?” she questioned.

She warned that Ghana could face lawsuits from deportees over human rights violations, potentially damaging the country’s foreign policy image and international reputation.

She noted that the deportees may compete with locals for jobs, straining the economy, while also facing difficulties integrating into Ghanaian society.

Madam Karikari further added that reactions in the United States have been mixed, saying that some Ghanaians welcome the return, citing family ties and the comfort of home, while others, however, are unsettled, particularly those who have established families and livelihoods in the U.S.

She pointed out that while Ghana is seen as a peaceful and safe country, the implications of hosting deportees must be carefully managed.

"Ghana could face legal actions from the deportees, and that wouldn't be a good look when it comes to foreign policy and the international reputation of Ghana. Now we also want to talk about the economic strain that will be put on Ghanaians.

• Read also: Ghana to receive 40 more deportees from US – Ablakwa

"Ghanaians will now be competing with these deportees when it comes to jobs. Also, look at the cultural adjustment, how they're going to integrate into the Ghanaian societies. All these are valid concerns that I think the government should address and listen to.”

The Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, had earlier revealed that 40 deportees are expected from the U.S. in the coming weeks.

His disclosure follows the Minority criticism of the government’s earlier acceptance of 14 deportees, accusing officials of sidestepping parliamentary approval.

The government has maintained that the arrangement is governed by a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the US, which does not require ratification.