The Member of Parliament for Bimbilla, Dominic Nitiwul, is demanding clarity from government over its decision to approve the purchase of two new aircraft for the Ghana Air Force after previously rejecting similar proposals.
The former Minister for Defence argued that government must explain why earlier recommendations for strategic airlift capability were dismissed, only for approval to be granted now.
According to Mr Nitiwul, delaying such investments has repeatedly weakened national security.
“I keep saying that if there is anybody in this room who knows the needs of the military, I have served them for eight years. I hold the same position I held last year and for the past eight years: it is not in our interest as a country not to have a strategic lift. We need it,” he said.
He also urged government to take responsibility for the delays.
“The government should own up. You want to buy two – own up, apologise to the people of Ghana, and convince us why you rejected the purchase for the last five years, and today you want to buy two: one long-range and one medium-size,” he stated.
Mr Nitiwul’s concerns follow Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson’s announcement on Thursday, November 13, detailing plans to acquire four modern helicopters, a long-range aircraft and a medium-range aircraft beginning in 2026.
The fleet upgrade is expected to be implemented over four years to boost the Air Force’s operational capabilities.
Dr Forson noted that the current aircraft fleet has become increasingly expensive to maintain, affecting efficiency. He added that the new acquisitions would enhance aerial surveillance, troop and logistics deployment, maritime patrols, air defence operations, disaster response efforts and medical evacuations.
ALSO READ:
