Ibrahim Adjei, the Resident Country Director of International Investments LLC, called on former President John Dramani Mahama to cease using his brother’s private jet for official state travel. Adjei voiced concerns over the transparency and potential conflicts of interest that could arise from the current arrangement, which, although potentially legitimate, may compromise public trust in the presidency.
Adjei emphasized that while the private jet arrangement could appear legal on the surface, it poses a serious risk to the credibility of Mahama’s leadership. “Even if the arrangement seems legitimate, it could easily give rise to perceptions of a quid pro quo — something for something,” said Adjei. He pointed out that nothing in politics is ever truly free, and such a situation could spark doubt among the public regarding the transparency of the presidency.
According to Adjei, the issue isn’t about the cost of travel but rather about safeguarding the integrity of state affairs. “We need transparency in government operations. Using a private jet owned by a close relative of the president could create unnecessary suspicion. The public’s trust is paramount,” he told Channel One TV.
Adjei proposed that the government should bear the costs of presidential travel by chartering an aircraft when necessary. He argued that this would not only avoid any conflicts of interest but also ensure that presidential travel remains above partisan considerations and free from potential corruption allegations.
“Presidential security and travel should be a matter of state, not a private affair. If the president’s safety and travel needs are paramount, taxpayers should bear the cost of chartering a state-approved jet. This would ensure that there is no perceived conflict of interest,” Adjei added.
Source: metrotvonline.com
