By Adiza Bawa & Rhoda Yorke
The Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has called on the government to speak up on the matter of Ukraine tensions to assure Ghanaian students of their safety.
In an interview with Thelma Tackie on the GTV Breakfast Show February 24, 2022, he said other countries including India have made plans for Indians living in Ukraine by providing them with an Aircraft at a reduced rate. But, with the case of Ghana, nothing has been made.
He added that there is no diplomatic mission for Ghanaians in Ukraine. Even though students appear organized, there ought to be a plan for students furthering their education in Ukraine, he added.
Mr. Okudzeto Ablakwa described the situation in Ukraine as worrying, contrary to Russia’s initial claims that they do not plan to make incursions in Ukraine ”which has always been contested by Western intelligence. It has appeared that Western intelligence was quite right on this particular matter”, he said.
”Russia has not been transparent about what their intentions are or whether they want to annex Ukraine”.
Mr. Ablakwa said footage shows that Russia is really trying to annex some territories in Ukraine. He added that the situation is no longer a matter of perception or propaganda on both sides.
“There has been a lot of propaganda; Pro-western propaganda, Pro-Russia propaganda, Anti-Putin propaganda. There’s been a lot of that. But, it is clear when you listen to Vladimir Putin that he intends to recognize the rebel-led territories in Ukraine”, he posited.
He said Ukraine has a vast land and Russia’s interest, particularly in the Eastern Province, is one that they (Russia) are determined to protect.
The North Tongu MP admitted that there is great regard for the sovereignty of Ukraine. The Member of the Foreign Affairs Committee of Parliament said what is happening in Ukraine should be of concern to all nations who have their citizens in the country.