The Deputy Interior Minister, Kwadwo Afram Asiedu has cautioned Liberian refugees from importing the politics of their country into Ghana. “You are here to seek refuge and must not use your host country as a base to attack your country of origin”. He warned that those who engage in such activities will be dealt with within the confines of the laws of Ghana if they are caught.
He was addressing the Liberian refugees at the Budumburam Camp near Accra. The visit offered Mr. Afram Asiedu the opportunity to know at first hand and understand some of the problems facing the refuges. It also coincided with the formal opening of the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) office at the Camp.
The deputy Minister commended the refugees for fending for themselves when the UNHCR withdrew its assistance in June 2000. He also commended the UNHCR for supporting government’s efforts in catering for the refugees.
The officer-in-charge of UNHCR, Thomas Albrecht said the commission is currently exploring ways of strengthening a number of community-based sectors at the camp. This include the construction, rehabilitation and expansion of a school, support to the Budumburam Clinic among others.