The body of Bashiru Isak, the Ghanaian killed during the recent wave of xenophobic attacks in South Africa, has been returned home as the Government of Ghana renewed its demand for justice. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed on Thursday, July 16, that the father of three was fatally shot multiple times in Khayelitsha, a suburb of Cape Town, and announced plans for an independent autopsy after efforts to obtain an official post-mortem report from South African authorities proved unsuccessful.
This story falls under: News
The latest development comes days after Ghana demanded justice for the Ghanaian killed in South Africa, signalling that the government intends to maintain diplomatic pressure until those responsible are identified and prosecuted.
Follow our WhatsApp channel for more interesting and relevant news
According to the ministry, Bashiru Isak’s identity has now been conclusively established, contradicting earlier claims by some South African officials that cast doubt on the victim’s identity. Ghana described Mr Isak as a law-abiding citizen and a loving father of three whose death has deeply affected his family and the nation.
With the consent of his family, Ghana’s High Commission in Pretoria facilitated the repatriation of his remains. His body arrived at Kotoka International Airport at 6:40 pm on Tuesday, July 14, where senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and relatives received the casket before it was transferred to the 37 Military Hospital.
Ghana to Conduct Independent Autopsy
The Ministry said both Ghana’s High Commission in Pretoria and Mr Isak’s family had been unable to obtain an autopsy report from South African authorities despite repeated efforts.
To establish the exact circumstances surrounding his death, the government and the family have agreed to conduct an independent autopsy in Ghana.
The ministry stressed that the examination would be carried out before Mr Isak is buried in accordance with Islamic customs.
In its statement, the ministry insisted there should be “no room for silence or cover-ups” in the investigation into the fatal shooting.
Government Vows to Pursue Justice
Ghana says it will continue pursuing every available diplomatic and legal avenue to ensure justice is served.
The ministry called for expedited investigations, arrests and prosecutions, maintaining that those responsible for the killing must be held accountable.
It also expressed its deepest condolences to Mr Isak’s parents, wife, children, relatives and friends as they mourn his death.
Looking ahead, Ghana is expected to continue engaging South African authorities while awaiting the outcome of the independent autopsy, which could shape the next phase of its diplomatic and legal efforts to secure justice for Bashiru Isak.
Related reads
- Ghanaian Killed In South Africa As Julius Malema Says It’s “Gangsterism Sponsored By Government”
- 144 Ghanaian Migrants Safely Return from Libya as Government Begins Reintegration Support
- South Africa Xenophobia Impact: Justice Minister Warns of Economic Damage as Artists Lose Gigs
- “They kicked me into the rain; I want to go home”: Ghanaian footballer recounts xenophobic attacks in South Africa
Explore more:
News | Business | Entertainment | Lifestyle | Sports
