President John Dramani Mahama has reportedly instructed the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) to launch an investigation into the official travels of former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo during his time in office.
This investigation is seen as part of broader efforts by the current government to ensure greater accountability and transparency in the management of state resources, particularly with regard to the costs associated with the presidency’s international trips.
Concerns over the high cost of these travels have been raised frequently by opposition parties, civil society organizations, and even members of the public, particularly throughout Akufo-Addo’s tenure.
These voices have criticized what they perceive as extravagant expenditures on travel, especially in comparison to the use of the state-owned presidential jet.
The scrutiny intensified in 2021 when North Tongu MP, Mr. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, accused the former president of spending millions of cedis on luxury chartered flights for his official trips abroad.
Mr. Ablakwa’s claims highlighted not only the high cost of these private flights but also questioned the necessity of using chartered jets over the presidential plane, which is meant to serve as a more economical alternative.
He argued that such high expenditures were not justifiable, especially in a country facing economic challenges, and called for a thorough investigation into the finances and decision-making processes behind the trips.
Mr. Mahama’s directive for an investigation into the former president’s travel expenses is expected to provide further clarity on the matter.
However, as of now, the government has not issued a formal statement regarding the investigation, leaving many questions unanswered.
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