Peter Bismark Kwofie, Executive Director of the Institute for Liberty and Policy Innovation (ILAPI), has raised serious concerns regarding President John Dramani Mahama’s decision to utilise his brother’s private jet for official state travel.
The policy analyst argues that the arrangement triggers significant security, ethical, and financial questions that must be addressed.
Beyond the immediate concerns of a conflict of interest, Mr Kwofie emphasised that the President’s safety should never be compromised.
He argued that state-owned aircraft are inherently more secure and technically advanced than any private alternative, regardless of ownership.
“The security of our president is paramount. What are the security measures considered for him to use the private jet? The security measures factored into the aircraft of the state are far more advanced compared to the private jet he would use—even more advanced than a billionaire’s private jet. Security-wise, it is inappropriate for him to use.”
Mr Kwofie challenged the narrative that using a private jet saves the taxpayer money.
He questioned the logic behind claiming that the president’s brother, Ibrahim Mahama, would receive no benefit from such a high-profile arrangement.
Technically, he noted that the costs of operating a jet extend far beyond the initial lease, encompassing a range of significant expenses such as refuelling costs, landing and parking fees, and rigorous maintenance schedules.
“Economically, they will justify that the use of the private jet is saving us money. However, technically, that is untrue because you will refuel the jet; pay for landing and maintenance, among others. Who bears those costs? Is it from the pocket of President Mahama, his brother Ibrahim Mahama, or is the state paying for these services?”
The ILAPI Director stressed that this situation represents a breach of several principles of good governance. To illustrate his point, he invited the public to consider the reaction if the roles were reversed.
He questioned how Ghanaians would have responded if former President Akufo-Addo had used a private jet provided by his cousin, Gabby Otchere-Darko, for official business.
Mr Kwofie noted that without transparent records, it remains nearly impossible for the public to verify any claims regarding the alleged cost savings produced by this arrangement.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
