The concerns raised by the NPP regarding Sharaf Mahama’s presence on President John Mahama’s official trips are baseless and should be dismissed by Ghanaians.The Elephants have forgotten so soon that, it is within the President’s right to choose who accompanies him on official trips, including his family members.
The President’s decision to have his son Sharaf accompany him on trips does not incur additional costs to the state. This is because accommodation and food are usually provided by the host nation. Furthermore, the President does not fly commercial, which means there is no additional air cost.
Unless the NPP can provide evidence that Sharaf Mahama is receiving per diem for accompanying his father on trips, their agitation is unfounded and rings hollow. It is also hypocritical, given the NPP’s own history of using state funds for personal expenses.
The President should not be lectured on morality by individuals who have abused their power and used state funds for personal gain. Those who have used unaccountable imprest to fly their companions around the world are in no position to criticize the President for keeping his young son close.
It is also worth noting that the NPP’s criticism is particularly rich, given their own track record on managing state resources. People who neglected our Presidential jet and flew an empty aircraft from Europe to Accra to airlift President Akufo-Addo, only to fly back empty, should not be complaining about President Mahama’s son joining him on a trip, especially when his presence does not incur any additional cost to the state.The Elephant Should Keep Mute