Accra, March 26, – The Minority Caucus in Parliament has indicated plans to petition the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) over alleged conflict-of-interest concerns involving President John Dramani Mahama.
The concerns centre on two issues: the President’s use of a private jet owned by his brother, Mr Ibrahim Mahama, for official travel, and the award of operational control of the Damang Gold Mine to Engineers & Planners Limited, a company linked to the same family.
Mr Kwaku Ampratwum-Sarpong, Ranking Member on Lands and Natural Resources and Member of Parliament for Mampong, told the Parliamentary Press Corps that the Caucus believed the developments could breach Article 287(1) of the 1992 Constitution, which prohibits public officials from placing themselves in situations of conflict between personal interests and official duties.
He said the Minority would demand full disclosure of all trips undertaken using the private jet, including destinations, costs to the State, and the estimated value of any services provided without charge since the President assumed office on January 7, 2025.
According to the Caucus, the Presidency has justified the use of the aircraft as a temporary measure while the State’s official presidential jet undergoes technical review.
However, Minority Members argued that the arrangement could be construed as a benefit or gift that may compromise the independence of the Presidency.
They cited a recent trip in March 2026, when the President travelled to Seoul, South Korea, aboard a Bombardier Global 6500 aircraft associated with the “Dzata” fleet.
On the mining sector, the Minority raised concerns over the reported operationalisation of the Damang Gold Mine by Engineers & Planners Limited, describing it as a strategic national asset whose management must meet the highest standards of transparency and fairness.
They contended that the two matters formed part of a broader pattern that raised questions about governance and accountability, arguing that the overlap between private family interests and public responsibilities undermined public confidence.
The Caucus also referenced international best practices in countries such as the United Kingdom, Canada, Singapore, Slovakia, and the United States, where strict rules exist to prevent conflicts of interest in public office.
Mr Ampratwum-Sarpong said the Minority was preparing a formal petition to CHRAJ seeking a comprehensive investigation into both issues.
He noted that the outcome of the petition could have significant implications for Ghana’s constitutional governance and the enforcement of ethical standards in public office.
The development is expected to spark broader national debate on transparency, accountability, and the management of public resources.
GHBUSS
26 March 2026
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