By Ashiadey Dotse
The Minister-designate for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has promised to push for a new Presidential Travel Policy to regulate official trips by Ghana’s Head of State.
Speaking during his vetting before the Appointments Committee, Ablakwa said the policy would help improve transparency and accountability in how state resources are used for official and private trips.
Ablakwa, who has often criticized what he calls excessive presidential travel expenses, especially under former President Nana Akufo-Addo, believes Ghana needs clear guidelines for managing presidential trips.
He pointed out that countries like the United States have strict rules, where presidents must reimburse the state if they use government jets for personal trips. He also emphasized the need for clear rules on who can use presidential aircraft and how they should be maintained.
“This is a matter I am very passionate about,” he said. “If given the opportunity in the cabinet, I will propose that Ghana formulates a Presidential Travel Policy. It is time for the government to take this seriously.”
Ablakwa assured the committee that he is committed to this policy and will work towards its implementation if approved as Minister.
