As the public has become increasingly concerned about the use of a private aircraft owned by John Dramani Mahama’s brother for trips by the president of Ghana, the president’s secretary, Dr. Callistus Mahama, has published an article stating his views regarding possible ethical issues created by this situation.
The article notes that there is a lot of public interest in these issues, particularly as some Ghanaians are beginning to wonder whether this type of arrangement may lead to potential ethical problems.
Dr. Mahama believes that due to democratic principles whereby people have the ability to question decisions made by their leaders, that it should not be surprising when members of the public subject those in leadership positions to scrutiny of their actions.
The major concern put forth by Dr. Mahama is whether using a plane owned and operated by another individual could create an appearance of a potential conflict of interest, and that individuals who question and/or investigate actions taken by those who hold public office must not be overlooked.
Dr. Mahama’s statement comes at a time during which there is controversy regarding allegations that the president has, in fact, used an aircraft operated by his brother for some of the president’s travel-related activities.
Dr. Mahama goes on to advise that while members of the public may routinely observe when the aircraft operates in the Ghana airspace (i.e. taking off and landing); there are numerous, complicated variables affecting where, when and how the president will conduct travel-related activities.
A presidential trip is a unique kind of journey, he said. “There are layers of responsibility connected with such trips: security protocols; diplomatic relationships; communication systems; and the requirement for the president to continue to execute his executive powers on behalf of the state even when he is out of Accra.”
According to him, Ghana’s current aviation capabilities create challenges. He explained how some aircraft that have previously been used for government travel were not originally acquired to conduct long-range diplomatic trips and that some have operating limitations.
He added that although certain members of the general public propose that the president travel as a commercial passenger, this is not feasible because of concerns about logistics and security—especially during long-term overseas appointments.
He acknowledged that public opinion will always be a major factor in any decision by leaders regarding public expenditures.
“Leadership must be aware of how the public perceives a viable solution, even if there is one,” he said.
Dr. Mahama also stated that as part of the Ghana Armed Forces’ overall modernization, steps are being taken to upgrade Ghana’s executive air transportation capability.
He indicated that an additional fleet of aircraft will arrive later this calendar year, including a new aircraft solely designated for presidential travel that would provide the country with the ability to ultimately use exclusively government-owned assets.
He was also able to express how this issue creates an exact parallel to increased public expectations such as: – Full disclosure – Reasonable and responsible government – Accountability of government agencies.
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