The Member of Parliament for Akim Oda, Alexander Akwasi Acquah, has revealed that the late Minister of Defence, in under six months in office, had taken steps to secure new aircraft for the Ghana Armed Forces.
Speaking in the wake of the recent helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight military personnel, Hon. Acquah said the procurement process could have started earlier if the current government, while in opposition, had supported the previous administration’s plans.
According to him, the previous government was ready to acquire a new fleet for the military, but politics stalled the process. “Then again, politics is on the head in this discussion,” he noted, stressing that national security should not be compromised by political divisions.
Hon. Acquah commended the late Dr. Omane Boamah for his swift action in addressing the Ghana Armed Forces’ logistical needs. “He started to get some new [aircraft] in less than six months in office,” the MP stated, pointing out that the Defence Ministry had begun the necessary arrangements before the tragedy struck.
He further emphasised the importance of equipping the Ghana Armed Forces with modern aircraft to safeguard the nation against external threats. In his view, the country must prioritise military readiness and avoid politicising defence matters, as delays in critical procurements could have devastating consequences.
