The Minority in Parliament has announced plans to petition the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) over what it describes as a potential conflict of interest involving President John Dramani Mahama’s use of a private jet owned by his brother, Ibrahim Mahama.
According to the caucus, the President’s continued use of a private jet owned by his brother, Ibrahim Mahama raises constitutional concerns and could erode public trust in the presidency if not subjected to independent scrutiny.
Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, March 26, Minority Spokesperson on Lands and Natural Resources, Kwaku Ampratwum-Sarpong, disclosed that the group is in consultations with civil society organisations, professional bodies, and other stakeholders to file a joint petition before CHRAJ.
“The Minority is formally considering a joint petition with civil society organisations, professional bodies, and concerned citizens… on both the private jet arrangements and the Damang mine process as two manifestations of the same constitutional breach,” he said.
He argued that the President’s continued reliance on the aircraft for official duties is inappropriate, especially in situations where companies associated with Ibrahim Mahama are involved in or pursuing government contracts and concessions.
“On the private jet, the President must immediately cease using his brother’s aircraft for official travel, for as long as Ibrahim Mahama’s companies hold, seek, or are in negotiation for any state contract, concession, or mineral rights,” he stated.
The Minority is also demanding full disclosure from the presidency on all instances where the aircraft has been used for official travel.
“The presidency must publish a full accounting of all travel on Ibrahim Mahama’s aircraft since January 2025, including dates, destinations, total cost borne by the state, and the estimated market value of services provided without charge,” he added.
The caucus further indicated that it intends to formally trigger investigations under Article 287 of the 1992 Constitution, urging CHRAJ to determine whether the arrangement contravenes Article 284, which addresses conflict of interest, as well as the President’s own code of conduct.
Beyond the private jet matter, the Minority linked its concerns to the ongoing Damang mine process, alleging broader irregularities in procurement.
It claimed there have been attempts to influence outcomes in favour of certain entities and called for the immediate suspension of the process pending further examination.
