NPP Put Akufo-Addo’s Comfort Ahead of Aircraft Needs – Nii Kpakpo Samoa

Private legal practitioner and NDC communications member, Nii Kpakpo Samoa Addo, has accused the New Patriotic Party (NPP) of prioritizing former President Akufo-Addo’s comfort over operational and security requirements when acquiring aircraft during its time in government.

Speaking on The Big Issue on Channel One TV on Saturday, November 22, 2025, he argued that former Defence Minister Dominic Nitiwul failed to clearly explain the real reasons behind the aircraft procurement.

“The problem was the party’s inability to check the excesses of President Akufo-Addo. While every president has indulgences, a strong party system is meant to curb them. With a president who has extravagant tastes, the executive position becomes even harder to manage,” he said.

He contrasted NPP leaders’ flamboyance with the simplicity of past NDC presidents, noting that NDC leaders tend to live modestly, while NPP officials often favor luxury.

Nii Kpakpo also recalled that when former President John Agyekum Kufuor took office, he found Osu Castle inadequate and began constructing a new presidential palace to meet operational needs before leaving office.

His comments come amid parliamentary debate over the Mahama administration’s plan to acquire six new aircraft—four helicopters and two executive planes—for the Ghana Armed Forces. While the Majority argues the aircraft are essential for national operations, the Minority criticizes the plan as reflecting misplaced priorities, especially given ongoing public sector challenges.

Nii Kpakpo’s remarks underscore how aircraft procurement is often viewed through a partisan lens, highlighting the tension between operational necessity and presidential comfort.