The Minority in Parliament has clarified that it has no objection to the government’s plan to procure a new presidential jet but insists that the process must be transparent and demonstrate value for money.
The caucus emphasised that its concern revolves around the scope of procurement and the amount of funds allocated, rather than opposition to modernising state assets.
Hon. Samuel Abu Jinapor, the Member of Parliament (MP) for Damongo, noted in an interview that the Minority fully supports measures that ensure the President can carry out official duties efficiently. Speaking about ongoing parliamentary debates on the 2026 Budget Statement and Economic Policy, Hon. Jinapor underscored the importance of balancing national priorities with fiscal responsibility.
“I believe the president should be given the necessary tools to enable him to discharge his responsibilities well. I don’t have any difficulty with that, the minority doesn’t have any difficulty with that, and I don’t think any Ghanaian should have difficulty with that”
Hon. Samuel Abu Jinapor, MP for Damongo
The Damongo MP highlighted that the Minority’s principal concern lies in the details of the procurement process, particularly regarding the allocation of GHS 13.1 billion for four helicopters and two presidential jets at a time when many public sector workers have reportedly not received their salaries.
Hon. Jinapor urged the government to provide clarity to reassure citizens that taxpayer funds are being utilised responsibly, so that there is value for money. “I believe that the government should come forward to answer these two questions and get the country satisfied,” he stated.
Hon. Jinapor also criticised what he described as misplaced priorities in the budget, noting that the substantial allocation to aircraft procurement has raised concerns over whether other pressing national needs are being adequately addressed.
While reiterating the Minority’s support for equipping the President with necessary tools, he stressed that transparency and accountability must guide the process.
New Jet Justified
Responding to Jinapor’s assertions, Hon. Ernest Norgbey, MP for Ashaiman and a member of the Defence and Interior Committee, dismissed claims that the government’s decision reflected a misalignment of priorities, arguing that Ghana’s current economic situation provides sufficient fiscal space to modernise security agencies, including upgrading aircraft and other critical assets.
“The economy, as we speak now, has everything at stake to make sure all the agencies that were lagging in the previous administration for the past eight years are retooled. We have the know-how and the resources to ensure that these agencies receive what they need,”
Hon. Ernest Norgbey, MP for Ashaiman
Hon. Norgbey emphasised that modernising the security services should be viewed as a national priority, rather than a political issue.
He contended that the allocation of funds for helicopters and jets is necessary to enhance operational efficiency and ensure that national security agencies are adequately equipped to perform their duties. “The security services must be retooled. I don’t see the hullabaloo about dedicating funds to strengthen them,” he said.
The Ashaiman MP described criticisms surrounding the procurement as “mere political rhetoric,” arguing that the government is acting responsibly by strengthening critical state institutions. He added that “the economy today is better than it was under the past NPP regime. It may not be 100%, but it is significantly better.”
Hon. Norgbey stressed that the investment in aircraft is intended to ensure the President and security agencies have the necessary tools to protect national interests, respond effectively to emergencies, and maintain operational readiness.
The debate highlights the need for balance between equipping state leadership and institutions with modern tools and ensuring prudent management of public resources.
Both the Minority and government representatives agree on the importance of strengthening national assets, but the former insists that transparency and clear communication are essential for public confidence.
As Parliament deliberates on the 2026 Budget, the discussion surrounding the presidential jet reflects broader concerns about fiscal accountability, national priorities, and the government’s responsibility to ensure value for taxpayer money.
While the Minority supports modernisation efforts, it continues to press for comprehensive explanations to safeguard transparency in public spending.
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