Ghana will receive about 40 West African deportees from the United States in the coming days, Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa confirmed, under a controversial third-country returns arrangement signed with Washington.

“We have received two batches already, and there is a third batch coming. About 40 are expected in the next few days,” Ablakwa told Channel One television.

The deal, framed as a humanitarian measure, allows Ghana to serve as a temporary transit point for nationals from across the West African region who are deported from the US.

Ablakwa stressed that Ghana’s security agencies would carefully vet arrivals. “We are not accepting hardened criminals, persons associated with terrorism or violent extremism, and anyone on Interpol’s wanted list,” he said.

So far, 14 migrants - 13 Nigerians and one Gambian - have transited through Ghana under the scheme before being assisted to return home, according to government figures.

President John Dramani Mahama last week defended the arrangement at a press briefing, calling it consistent with Ghana’s Pan-African values. 

“This is not an endorsement of US immigration policy. It is about helping fellow Africans transit safely back to their nations,” he said.

The programme has triggered debate in Accra, with critics warning of risks to security and pressure on public services.

The Minority in Parliament has invoked Article 75 of the Constitution, arguing the agreement should be submitted for legislative approval. Civil society groups have also raised concerns over transparency and consultation.

Ablakwa rejected suggestions that the deal involved financial inducements. “Ghana has not received and does not seek any financial compensation or material benefit,” he insisted.

He also argued that parliamentary approval was unnecessary, saying the memorandum fell within the administrative remit of the foreign ministry.