Ghana to Acquire New President’s Jet By November- Callistus Mahama
The Secretary to President John Dramani Mahama has disclosed that plans are advanced to acquire a new presidential jet.
The new addition to the country’s aircraft fleet will be available by November 2026, Mr Callistus Mahama disclosed in an Opinion piece issued to address concerns about the President’s use of his brother’s private jet.
“Plans are already underway to strengthen Ghana’s presidential air transport capability as part of the broader retooling of the Armed Forces.
“By November this year, the country is expected to have additional aircraft within the presidential fleet, including one dedicated to the President’s travel.”
This, he argued, would offer a safe and efficient transportation for the Head of State as well as address public concerns.
Addressing concerns about the abandonment of the current presidential jet, Mr Mahama referenced the prevailing condition and limitations of the state’s available aircraft.
“Some of the platforms historically used for presidential or governmental travel were never originally acquired for long-range diplomatic missions. Others face technical and operational constraints that make certain journeys impractical or inadvisable.”
With regard to commercial travel cited as an alternative, he said the option is also not always feasible for a sitting President, particularly when the travel involves long-haul intercontinental engagements or tightly scheduled diplomatic commitments.
“Beyond the obvious security considerations, such travel introduces logistical complexities that can make it difficult for a Head of State to carry out official duties during transit.”
Meanwhile, he noted the President is deeply conscious of the economic pressures facing ordinary Ghanaians.
“The cost of governance, including presidential travel, is something he frequently questions in internal discussions. In an era when citizens expect restraint from public officials, the symbolism of leadership matters as much as the substance.”
Story by Hajara Fuseini
Click to read more: https://opemsuo.com/author/hajara-fuseini/
