In a strong condemnation, Selorm Branttie, Vice President of the IMANI Centre for Policy and Education, has criticized the handling of Ethiopian Airlines’ supposed inaugural direct flight to Prempeh International Airport, Kumasi.
The IMANI’s Vice President’s remarks follow the delayed flight, which was initially publicized by the Ghana Airport Company Limited (GACL) as a landmark development for Ghana’s aviation industry.
He vehemently rejected tribal insinuations that criticism of the announcement was rooted in anti-Asante sentiment.
“Let’s cut that stupid BS about people hating Asante people. That is completely infantile logic and those saying that nonsense should be ashamed of themselves. Not all Ghanaians are either gullible or stupid. If that’s the audience you are used to, stick to them and stop fomenting tribal nonsense where it doesn’t exist.”
Selorm Branttie, Vice President of the IMANI Centre for Policy and Education
In his pointed critique, Selorm Branttie lauded Ethiopian Airlines (ET) as Africa’s most profitable airline, attributing its success to a steadfast commitment to professionalism and independence from political interference.
“They didn’t allow politics to ruin them. They are nobody’s errand boys,” he asserted. Drawing on his personal experience as a frequent flyer and Cloud 9 member of Ethiopian Airlines since 2009, Selorm Branttie revealed that the airline typically announces new routes through official channels, including brochures, email newsletters, and in-flight communications.
He noted the absence of any such communication regarding a Kumasi route, raising doubts about the authenticity of the announcement.
Prempeh International Airport: The Potential and the Process
The renowned activist and policy analyst acknowledged the immense potential of Prempeh International Airport as a future hub for aviation and logistics, emphasizing its strategic importance in reducing pressure on existing facilities like Kotoka International Airport’s cargo operations.
However, he cautioned that the airport must first meet stringent International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards and security clearances before hosting international flights.
“These aren’t child play, and this should be done even before the feasibility of commercial flights are studied and piloted. We can’t just get up one morning and announce international direct flights just like that.
“For a company like ET, that will mean routing at least 5 different aircraft and making accommodations for gate check-in logistics, cargo handling, ticketing and lots of other things, as well as aircraft availability, fuel and route management.”
Selorm Branttie, Vice President of the IMANI Centre for Policy and Education
The IMANI Vice President criticized the premature nature of the announcement, describing it as “uncalled for and an own goal.” He argued that managing an international flight route involves complex logistics, from aircraft allocation and gate check-ins to fuel and cargo handling—tasks requiring meticulous planning and coordination.
“Aviation isn’t like buying buses or commissioning empty buildings with equipment still in styrofoam boxes unpacked,” Selorm Branttie quipped, taking a jab at what he deemed as a broader trend of superficial achievements.
He also accused political actors of exploiting such announcements for electoral gains, describing the strategy as an insult to the intelligence of voters. “Is this how you market yourself for votes?” he asked pointedly.
In conclusion, Selorm Branttie emphasized the critical need for transparency, accountability, and professionalism in public communication, especially on matters of national significance.
While expressing optimism about the potential of Prempeh International Airport, he urged leaders to prioritize credibility over political expediency.“Let’s all be demure and mindful here,” Selorm Branttie concluded, advocating for a more responsible approach to national development and public discourse.
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