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The secretary to the president, Dr Callistus Mahama, has responded to growing public debate over the use of a private aircraft belonging to the brother of President John Dramani Mahama for official presidential travel, acknowledging concerns about a possible perception of conflict of interest.
In an opinion piece, Dr Mahama said the issue had become the subject of public discussion in recent days, with some Ghanaians questioning whether the arrangement could raise ethical concerns.
According to him, such scrutiny is legitimate in a democratic society where citizens have the right to question decisions taken by public officials.
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“The most frequently expressed concern is whether such an arrangement could give rise to a perception of a conflict of interest,” he wrote, adding that public questions about the conduct of those in authority should not be dismissed.
His remarks come amid ongoing debate over reports that the president has used an aircraft owned by his brother for some official travel engagements.
Dr Mahama noted that while the public often sees the aircraft taking off or landing, the complex considerations that shape presidential travel arrangements are less visible.
“Presidential travel is unlike any other form of travel,” he said. “It carries with it layers of responsibility—security protocols, diplomatic engagements, communication systems, and the requirement that the head of state remain able to function as the executive authority of the republic even while away from Accra.”
He explained that Ghana’s current state aviation capacity presents challenges, noting that some aircraft historically used for government travel were not originally acquired for long-range diplomatic missions, while others face operational limitations.
Dr Mahama said commercial travel, though sometimes suggested by the public, is not always feasible for a sitting president due to security and logistical considerations, especially during long-haul international engagements.
Despite those realities, he acknowledged the importance of public perception in matters involving leadership and public resources.
“Even when a practical solution exists, leadership must remain attentive to how the public understands it,” he wrote.
Dr Mahama also indicated that efforts are underway to strengthen Ghana’s presidential air transport capability as part of the broader retooling of the Ghana Armed Forces.
According to him, additional aircraft are expected to join the presidential fleet later this year, including one dedicated to presidential travel, which he said would allow the country to rely fully on state-owned assets in the future.
The discussion surrounding the aircraft, he noted, reflects broader expectations by citizens for transparency, restraint, and accountability in governance.
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