The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has cautioned political actors against turning the procurement of presidential planes and helicopters into partisan propaganda, emphasising that such acquisitions are matters of national security rather than political convenience.
He gave the advice when the Ashanti Regional Minister, Frank Amoakohene, called on him at the Manhyia Palace in the wake of last week’s tragic helicopter crash in Obuasi, which claimed the lives of eight people.
The Asantehene described the incident as a “national concern” and extended his condolences to President John Mahama and the bereaved families.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II stressed the importance of treating aviation safety and security equipment procurement with the utmost seriousness, noting that human lives depend on their efficiency and reliability.
“Enough of the politicizing of the purchase of presidential planes and helicopters. Human lives are at stake here. We must invest to safeguard their safety and efficiency,” he said.
The King observed that many of Ghana’s military aircraft are currently in poor condition, making it imperative to invest in new, modern equipment.
The Asantehene further urged all sides of the political divide to unite in addressing the country’s aviation and security logistics challenges to prevent future tragedies.
His comments come at a time when the nation is mourning the loss of military personnel in the Obuasi crash and facing renewed public debate over the adequacy of Ghana’s aviation infrastructure.
He called for a non-partisan approach to such critical issues, stressing that the safety of the nation must come before politics.
