Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Minister of State responsible for Government Communications, has clarified that businessman Ibrahim Mahama—brother of President John Dramani Mahama—is not offering his private jet to the President in exchange for favours. His remarks follow public criticism of President Mahama’s use of the aircraft owned by his brother. Speaking on Channel One TV’s Face to Face with Umaru Sanda Amadu on Tuesday, March 17, Kwakye Ofosu explained that the arrangement is purely cost-saving for the nation. He noted:
“If the President uses his brother’s jet, there is no rental fee. We are not paying GHC18,000. When you rent, you pay for the aircraft and fuel. In this case, we only cover the fuel, which significantly reduces expenses.” Addressing suggestions of undue benefit, he added, “I have heard people say he is likely to gain from this. But does your brother need to give you something before you help him in life?”
He added, “The cheapest at the moment, given the circumstances and where he’s going, and the need he will have for the aircraft, is his brother’s arrangement. “Ibrahim Mahama doesn’t need to give his aircraft to President Mahama in exchange for favours. The argument that he’s doing it for favours is untenable. he has done a good job.”
Kwakye Ofosu emphasised that the use of the aircraft is purely a cost-effective measure, with no underlying motives or expectations of reciprocity.
Source: Leticia Osei
