The U.S. Department of Defense has confirmed the transfer of two detainees from Guantanamo Bay to Ghana. On January 6, 2016, Mahmud Umar Muhammad Bin Atef and Khalid Muhammad Salih Al-Dhuby were moved to the Government of Ghana's custody.
"The United States is grateful to the Government of Ghana for its humanitarian gesture and willingness to support ongoing U.S. efforts to close the Guantanamo Bay detention facility," a statement read. The coordination between the United States and Ghana ensured that these transfers adhered to appropriate security and humane treatment measures.
Transfers are considered only after thorough discussions with the receiving country about any potential threats posed by detainees post-transfer. Measures are put in place by the receiving country to mitigate such threats while ensuring humane treatment.
An interagency Guantanamo Review Task Force conducted a comprehensive review of these cases as directed by a presidential executive order on January 22, 2009. Following an examination of various factors, including security issues, Atef and Al-Dhuby were unanimously approved for transfer nearly six years ago by six departments and agencies comprising the task force.
Efforts continue to reduce the detainee population at Guantanamo responsibly. While repatriating detainees to their home countries is preferred when consistent with national security and humane treatment policies, resettlement in third countries remains an option under certain circumstances. Of the 133 detainees transferred during this Administration, 82 have been resettled in third countries.
"We remain very appreciative of the assistance of our friends and allies who have stepped up to accept detainees for resettlement," said a spokesperson, acknowledging "this generous humanitarian action by our partner, the Republic of Ghana." The closure of Guantanamo is a goal shared by many governments globally. Currently, there are 105 detainees remaining at Guantanamo Bay.