Media personality Elvis Darko has called on Ghanaians to show appreciation to Ibrahim Mahama for making his private jet available for presidential travel.
His comments come amid ongoing public debate surrounding the decision by President John Dramani Mahama to use his brother’s private jet for official trips, including a recent international visit.
Speaking during a television discussion, Darko defended the arrangement, arguing that it offers a practical and cost-saving solution for the country. He explained that instead of the government spending large sums of money to charter aircraft for presidential travels, the use of a privately owned jet reduces financial pressure on the state.
According to him, if the country is only responsible for operational costs such as fuel rather than full charter expenses, then the arrangement should be seen as beneficial rather than controversial. He questioned why a gesture that potentially saves public funds is being criticised instead of appreciated.
Darko further stressed that the situation highlights the need for a balanced national conversation on government expenditure and resource management. He suggested that Ghanaians should focus on the economic advantages of the decision rather than politicising it.
The issue has sparked mixed reactions across the country, with some critics raising concerns about possible conflicts of interest, while others agree that the arrangement helps reduce costs associated with official travel.
Darko also used the opportunity to reflect on past criticisms directed at previous administrations over similar decisions, noting that current developments may offer a different perspective on those debates.
The discussion continues to generate public interest, as many weigh the financial implications against governance and ethical considerations in the use of private assets for state functions.
