Former Minister of Health, Dr Bernard Okoe Boye, has outlined categories of people he deliberately avoids criticising in the country.

According to him, these individuals are those he holds in high regard, making it difficult for him to speak against them.

Speaking in an interview on Peace FM’s Kokrokoo programme on March 23, 2026, Dr Okoe Boye disclosed that imams, pastors, chiefs, traditional authorities and businessmen are not part of people he would easily criticise.

His comments come in response to discussions surrounding President John Dramani Mahama’s use of his brother Ibrahim Mahama’s private jet, which has sparked public debate.

Dr Okoe Boye emphasised that criticism should be constructive.

He added that he believes the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government owes the previous administration an apology for criticisms made in the past, especially if similar actions are now being repeated.

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He, however, argued that it is unfair to single out Ibrahim Mahama for criticism, noting that there is nothing wrong with owning a private jet.

“If Ibrahim Mahama has bought a plane, I don’t see anything wrong with that. In this country, there are three groups of people I don’t talk about because I have so much respect for them.

“First are pastors and imams because we all hope to go to heaven after this life.
“Second are chiefs and traditional authorities. Third are businessmen, those who create jobs for others, “he said.

He added, “They are not angels but the fact that Ibrahim Mahama has been creating businesses for people to work in is something I admire. Personally, I would also like to own a plane one day, so if someone has bought one, I don’t see it as a bad thing,” he said.

Dr Okoe Boye further noted that he considers himself part of the group he does not criticise people a lot, due to his involvement in business.



AM/VPO

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