The government has defended its plan to acquire six aircrafts, including two presidential jets, insisting the overall cost will be lower than what former President Nana Akufo-Addo spent on renting luxury jets.

The explanation came after the Minority caucus questioned the priority of the $1.2 billion allocation, pointing to outstanding payments owed to teachers, nurses, and road contractors.

During the debate on the 2026 budget, the Deputy Finance Minister, Thomas Nyarko Ampem, assured Parliament that the procurement would be carried out prudently and with careful management of public funds.

“I assure you that the cost of one aircraft will be far less than the amount you spent for President Akufo-Addo to rent luxurious aircrafts,” he stated.

Meanwhile, Former Defence Minister and MP for Bimbilla Dominic Nitiwul has called on the government to render an apology to the public for opposing the purchase of a new presidential jet while in opposition.

“You on the opposite side need to explain to the people of Ghana why for five years you fought against it and nine months later you are running not to buy one but two. You need to apologise to the people of Ghana,” he stated.