NDC’s criticism of Akufo-Addo’s expensive travels was justified – Mercy Abada
Abada argued that the NDC’s position, led by Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, was based on the prevailing economic hardships at the time.
A member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Communications Team for the Navrongo Central Constituency, Mercy Abada, has defended her party’s past criticism of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo over his use of private jets for official travels, describing the concerns as justified.
Speaking on the Big Mike Breakfast Show on Wednesday, August 27, Abada argued that the NDC’s position, led by Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, was based on the prevailing economic hardships at the time.
“Ablakwa was very critical because of the cost involved and the times we were in. We were in very difficult times as Ghanaians. The ordinary Ghanaian could not afford three square meals, arrears of nurses’ and teachers’ allowances were not paid, the cedi was depreciating, fuel prices were skyrocketing, and yet a president who called himself the father of the nation thought it was okay to engage in such luxurious travels.” she said.
She stressed that it was reasonable for the NDC to question why huge sums of money were being spent on what she described as “ultra-luxurious flights” when the country’s economy was “almost on its knees.”
Turning to the current debate on whether Ghana needs to acquire a new presidential jet following the recent helicopter crash, Abada urged that the matter be left to technical and security experts.
“Look at what the late Defence Minister said, that the presidential jet was on a protracted maintenance schedule and that some parts were corroded and needed complete replacement. So, can we guarantee the safety of the president after all that has been said? We should wait for the assessment of the Ghana Armed Forces to determine whether a new jet is necessary because they are mandated to guarantee the security of the president,” she stated.
The debate over the presidential jet has resurfaced in recent weeks, with political parties and civil society groups sharply divided on the matter.
Mike 105.3FM | Navrongo | David Adapuna
