Gov’t to acquire new presidential aircraft by November

Government is set to acquire a new aircraft for presidential travels by November this year, Executive Secretary to the President, Dr. Callistus Mahama has announced.

This move, according to him, is part of efforts to strengthen the country’s state aviation capacity and ensure that only state-owned aircrafts are used for official trips.

Addressing the ongoing debate on President Mahama’s usage of a jet belonging to his brother for an official visit to South Korea, the Dr. Calistus Mahama clarified that the decision is a temporary measure resulting from the “operation limitations” of the state’s presidential jet; the Falcon.

He noted that some planes that were previously used for trips are not equipped for long-range diplomatic missions, while others have technical challenges that make certain journeys “complicated.”

“Plans are already underway to strengthen Ghana’s presidential air transport capability as part of the broader retooling of the Armed Forces,” he stated. “By November this year, the country is expected to have an additional aircraft within the presidential fleet, including one dedicated to the President’s travel.”

The Secretary to the President emphasized that once the new plane is acquired, Ghana will be able to rely fully on its own resources for safe and efficient presidential trips.

He emphasised that presidential travel involves several complex considerations, including security protocols, diplomatic schedules, communication systems, and the “need for the President to remain fully functional as the executive authority even while travelling abroad.”

Dr. Mahama also acknowledged that public perception matters in matters of governance, noting that citizens have a reason to question the President’s travel arrangements that may seem unusual, stressing that the Mahama-led administration remains committed to rebuilding public trust as part of the “Reset Agenda.”