Financial Analyst and Director of Business Operations at Dalex Finance Joe Jackson has questioned the timing of the government’s decision to purchase a presidential jet. Mr. Jackson said while the money to be spent on the purchase of the jet will not take Ghana out of poverty, the government’s timing on the decision is poor.
He explained that at a time when the economy is rebounding from the devastating effects of the COVID-19, unfinished conversations about proper management of public funds and also at a time where Ghanaians are expecting to pay more in the area of taxes and statutory fees for government services, it was improper for the government to begin processes that will see to the procurement of a new jet for the president.
He said while conversations about economic hardship and financial distress are rife among the populace, the government should be seen also sharing in the hardship and empathizing with Ghanaians. Mr. Jackson said the government’s decision to begin the processes to acquire a new jet gives the indication that government does not want to share in the economic hardships with Ghanaians.
Meanwhile, the Member of Parliament for Builsa South Dr. Clement Apaak said he was taken aback by government’s decision to begin processes to purchase a bigger jet for use by the President. Dr. Apaak said government’s decision in the moment of austerity to splurge on a new jet is unfortunate.
He said this among many other reasons are the reasons why the Minority has suggested total rejection of the 2022 Budget Statement and Economic Policy as read on the floor of Parliament on November 17, 2021 by the Finance Minister, Ken Ofori Atta.
It will be recalled that the Minister for Defence, Dominic Nitiwul confirmed government is in the process of acquiring a new Presidential jet. According to the Minister, the move is based on a request by the Ghana Air Force for procurement of a main aircraft for government business.
He was answering questions from North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa who wanted a confirmation of revelation by Director of Communications at the Presidency Eugene Arhin that government is buying a new jet, Mr. Nitiwul disclosed consultations with Parliament, trade unions and religious bodies are ongoing ahead of the purchase of the new Presidential jet.
A1Radioonline.com|101.1MHz| Mark Kwasi Ahumah Smith|Ghana
