Government Spokesperson Kwaku Owusu Banahene has leveled grave accusations against the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) government, alleging a plot to endanger the life of President John Dramani Mahama during his tenure.

In an August 13 interview on Angel TV, Banahene claimed that NPP operatives sabotaged the presidential jet by applying acid to critical components, aiming to compromise the aircraft’s safety. He alleged this was part of a scheme to harm President Mahama, adding that the same individuals later insisted he continue using the jet for official travel.

“Some of the issues involve the presidential jet we’re now discussing. The NPP poured acid on all the pipes, causing corrosion,” Banahene said. “They set traps for President Mahama on that jet and then pressured him to use it. That’s why they opposed him flying his brother’s aircraft.”

Banahene provided no evidence for these claims, which emerged during national mourning over the crash of a Ghana Armed Forces Z9 helicopter. The tragedy killed eight, including high-ranking officials like Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah and Environment Minister Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed.

The incident has reignited debates about government aircraft safety, with Banahene’s allegations adding controversy. Authorities have yet to respond, and investigations into the helicopter crash remain ongoing.