The Minority in Parliament raised major priority concerns. Specifically, they questioned the government’s decision to allocate GH¢13.15 billion. This amount totals approximately US$1.2 billion. The expenditure covers a four-year period. It targets the acquisition of two presidential jets and four helicopters. The allocation forms part of the 2026–2029 budget provisions. The government justifies the spending as retooling for the Ghana Air Force.
Damongo MP Samuel Abu Jinapor questioned the rationale behind the massive expenditure. He addressed a press conference in Parliament on Wednesday, November 19, 2025. He revealed details from the 2026 Budget Statement. Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson presented this document. The budget allocates GH¢2.68 billion in 2026. Following that, it schedules GH¢3.54 billion in 2027. Later, it provides GH¢3.33 billion in 2028. The final portion allocates GH¢3.59 billion in 2029 for the procurement of the Presidential aircraft purchase.
Mr. Jinapor argued that the country cannot justify such lavish spending. He pointed out that critical sectors remain starved of necessary funds. Nurses are still awaiting recruitment. Teachers chase long-overdue arrears. Furthermore, farmers suffer losses as rice rots in warehouses. Workers have received only a paltry 9% salary increase. Moreover, liquidity remains extremely scarce across the nation.
The Minority spokesperson demanded full transparency and accountability from the government. He asked Ghanaians to judge the priority level. He questioned whether prioritizing presidential jets reflects prudent governance. “Is this the best use of Ghana’s scarce resources?” he asked Parliament. He also questioned spending $1.2 billion on luxury aircraft. He noted many hospitals lack basic equipment. Classrooms also suffer from severe overcrowding. Despite the Minority’s concerns, the Majority in Parliament defended the allocation. They insisted the Presidential aircraft purchase remains critical. They stated the allocation is necessary for retooling the nation’s security agencies.
