The Minority in Parliament has announced its intention to petition the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) over President John Dramani Mahama’s reliance on a private jet owned by his brother, Ibrahim Mahama.
According to the caucus, they consider the development a possible conflict of interest, raises constitutional issues, and risks undermining public confidence in the presidency.
At a press briefing on Thursday, March 26, the Minority Spokesperson on Lands and Natural Resources, Kwaku Ampratwum-Sarpong, said that discussions are ongoing with civil society groups and other stakeholders to submit a collective petition to CHRAJ.
“The Minority is formally considering a joint petition with civil society organisations, professional bodies, and concerned citizens… on both the private jet arrangements and the Damang mine process as two manifestations of the same constitutional breach,” he stated.
He stressed that the President should halt the use of the jet for official assignments, especially in situations where Ibrahim Mahama’s companies are engaged in state-related dealings.
“On the private jet, the President must immediately cease using his brother’s aircraft for official travel, for as long as Ibrahim Mahama’s companies hold, seek, or are in negotiation for any state contract, concession, or mineral rights,” he said.
Mr. Ampratwum-Sarpong further demanded transparency from the presidency, urging full disclosure of the arrangement.
“The presidency must publish a full accounting of all travel on Ibrahim Mahama’s aircraft since January 2025, including dates, destinations, total cost borne by the state, and the estimated market value of services provided without charge,” he added.
The Minority also disclosed plans to formally refer the matter to CHRAJ under Article 287 of the Constitution to determine whether the practice contravenes Article 284 and the President’s code of conduct.
They also linked the issue to concerns about the Damang mine process, alleging irregularities in procurement and calling for its suspension until a thorough review is completed.
