The Executive Secretary to President John Dramani Mahama, Callistus Mahama, has disclosed that Ghana is expected to acquire additional aircraft for presidential travel by November as part of efforts to enhance the country’s state aviation capacity.

In an article responding to public concerns about recent presidential travel arrangements, Mr. Mahama explained that preparations are already underway to expand the presidential fleet so the country can depend entirely on state-owned aircraft for official trips.

His remarks come in the wake of public debate over the President’s use of an aircraft belonging to his brother for some international engagements—an arrangement that has sparked discussions about the perception of a potential conflict of interest.

Mr. Mahama indicated that the current travel arrangements are only temporary and largely due to operational limitations associated with the state’s available aircraft.

He explained that some aircraft previously used for presidential travel were not designed for long-distance diplomatic missions, while others are affected by technical and operational constraints that make certain trips challenging.

“Plans are already underway to strengthen Ghana’s presidential air transport capability as part of the broader retooling of the Armed Forces.

“By November this year, the country is expected to have additional aircraft within the presidential fleet, including one dedicated to the President’s travel,” he wrote.

According to him, once the new aircraft become operational, Ghana will be able to rely fully on state-owned platforms to transport the President safely and efficiently, removing the need for temporary alternatives.

He noted that presidential travel involves several critical considerations, including security protocols, diplomatic schedules, communication systems, and the need for the President to remain fully functional as the country’s chief executive even while abroad.

Mr. Mahama also acknowledged the importance of public perception in governance, stating that citizens are justified in raising questions when certain arrangements appear unusual.

He stressed that the government remains committed to restoring public confidence through President Mahama’s “Reset Agenda,” which aims to strengthen institutions and promote responsible governance.

He added that the planned acquisition of additional aircraft forms part of a wider effort to re-equip and modernise the capabilities of the Ghana Armed Forces.

Mr. Mahama expressed optimism that once the aircraft are delivered and operational, Ghana will have a more stable and self-reliant system for presidential travel.