An altercation erupted between Deputy Chief of Staff Stan Dogbe and opposition MP Ekow Vincent Assafuah following the lawmaker’s inquiry into President Mahama’s travel arrangements to Japan and Singapore.
Assafuah, who represents Tafo, shared flight details of a private jet reportedly associated with the trip, insinuating extravagant spending. Dogbe promptly responded, labeling the post as “misleading” and “unintelligent,” affirming that Mahama traveled on commercial flights.
“Before making baseless accusations, ensure you have the facts straight,” Dogbe retorted on social media, accusing Assafuah of attempting to deceive Ghanaians. Despite omitting specific names or direct links to Mahama, the MP’s now-deleted post sparked conjecture. Assafuah, a former deputy minister, maintained his assertions but provided no additional evidence.
Diplomatic Engagement
The clash has overshadowed Mahama’s crucial diplomatic mission. In Japan, he participates in the TICAD IX summit and hosts a Ghana Investment Forum, aiming to establish collaborations with JICA and JETRO for infrastructure and trade. In Singapore, he attends the Africa-Singapore Business Forum, promoting Ghana’s “Resetting Ghana” initiatives to attract investments in technology and finance.
Political Ramifications
Experts view the dispute as indicative of Ghana’s polarized political landscape. “Instead of discussing policies, we are scrutinizing flight manifests,” remarked political scientist Dr. Ama Serwah based in Accra. With Mahama’s NDC government emphasizing economic recovery, critics argue that such distractions undermine public confidence.
Dogbe’s sharp response indicates the presidency’s intolerance for perceived misinformation. Nonetheless, opposition figures accuse the administration of lacking transparency. “Being open should not result in insults,” countered NPP communications director Richard Ahiagbah.
While Mahama engages in negotiations abroad, the incident underscores a stark reality: even presidential travel in Ghana’s digital era can become a contentious issue.
Ekow Vincent Assafuah’s Post and Responses
Stan Dogbe’s Response
