By: Kenneth Appiah Bani
Callistus Mahama, Secretary to the President, has addressed growing public concerns following reports that John Dramani Mahama used a private aircraft owned by his brother for some official travels.Responding to the issue, Dr. Mahama acknowledged that presidential travel arrangements often involve complex security, diplomatic, and logistical considerations that must be carefully coordinated.These arrangements typically require strict security protocols, diplomatic clearances, and logistical planning to ensure the safety and efficiency of the President’s movements both within and outside the country.
Despite these considerations, Dr. Mahama admitted that the public reaction to the matter is understandable. He noted that concerns about the perception of a possible conflict of interest are legitimate and should not be dismissed lightly.According to him, public trust in leadership is built on transparency and accountability, especially when decisions involve the use of private assets in official government activities. He emphasized that the government takes such concerns seriously and is committed to addressing them in a responsible and transparent manner.
Dr. Mahama further explained that in certain situations, governments may rely on alternative travel arrangements due to operational constraints, scheduling demands, or the unavailability of state aircraft. However, he stressed that such decisions are made within the framework of ensuring efficiency, safety, and continuity of government business.
He also revealed that the government is actively working to strengthen Ghana’s presidential air transport capacity. As part of these efforts, additional aircraft are expected to be added to the presidential fleet later this year.
The move, he said, is intended to enhance the country’s ability to manage official travel for the President and other senior government officials without relying on external arrangements. Strengthening the fleet will also improve flexibility, reduce logistical challenges, and ensure that future presidential trips are conducted under fully controlled state resources.
Dr. Mahama added that improving the presidential air transport system forms part of broader efforts to modernize state logistics and support the effective functioning of the executive branch.
The discussion surrounding the President’s travel arrangements has sparked debate among sections of the public and political observers, with many calling for clear guidelines on the use of private assets in official state activities.Government officials, however, maintain that steps are being taken to address the concerns while ensuring that presidential duties continue to be carried out efficiently and securely.
