Nana Yaw Fianko, a fellow at the Institute of Economic Research and Public Policy, has told the current minister of foreign affairs, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa to render an unqualified apology to the people of Ghana and the previous administration for politicizing the safety and security of Ghana’s president.
In a recent article on the ongoing conversation concerning the presidential jet, travels of past and current presidents of Ghana cited by Kobbykyeinews.com, Fianko believes that his comments on the presidential jet issue then were unnecessary, ill-informed, and unacceptable.
The controversy surrounding the presidential jet began when the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo administration informed Ghanaians about the defectiveness of the presidential jet, rendering it unworthy for VVIP flights.
The opposition, particularly the National Democratic Congress (NDC), criticized the government’s decision to hire private jets for presidential trips, labeling it as wasteful and luxurious.
Today, the issue has resurfaced, with President Mahama’s administration facing criticism for using commercial flights and private jets for official travels. Fianko argues that this is a populist move that compromises the safety and security of the president.
Fianko believes that hon. Okudzeto Ablakwa should apologize to the previous administration and Ghanaians for what his party did to the previous administration concerning the presidential jet.
He also advocates for a new conversation on acquiring a new presidential jet fit for purpose, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the safety and security of the president and top government officials.
Given the current global security threats, including violent extremism, cyberattacks, and terrorism, it is crucial to prioritize the safety and security of the president. Fianko argues that politicizing the issue of presidential security serves no purpose and may put the president at risk.
The presidential jet issue highlights the need for a more nuanced approach to discussing national security. By apologizing for past comments and initiating a new conversation on presidential security, President Mahama can help to prioritize the safety and security of Ghana’s president.
