Kwesi Pratt Jnr, the managing Editor of the Insight Newspaper, has stated that Ghanaians will oppose any move by the government to purchase a new Presidential jet.
According to him, as long as experts feel the current presidential jet, despite its considerable damage, can be returned to flying condition, there is no need for a replacement.
There have been various discussions on the Presidential Jet since news of its grounding in France leaked in both traditional and new media.
Dr. Omane Boamah, the Minister of Defence, revealed that the Presidential plane was grounded in France due to significant corrosion in the fuel tank and engine systems. According to him, the Falcon 900EX aircraft, which was acquired in 2010, has been out of service for some months due to severe structural concerns.
In an interview on Peace FM’s Kokrokoo morning show on Tuesday, 22 July 2025, Deputy Defence Minister Ernest Brogya Genfi reiterated that third-party assessors are located abroad. Combined with that of the Ghana Air Force, it was determined that the presidential aircraft is not suited for function. He did not, however, indicate if the government intended to purchase a new aircraft.
Contributing to a panel discussion on the same programme, Mr. Pratt stated that given the current state of the economy, with the cedi attempting to hold its ground against some major trading currencies, Ghanaians are not ready for funds to be released for the purchase of a new presidential jet. He said that once specialists have guaranteed Ghanaians that the jet will be restored, they should follow their advise.
“The jet can be returned to flying condition. We will fight any attempt to purchase a new presidential jet. Mr. Pratt stated, “We will make all the noise to strongly oppose the decision.”
