MONROVIA – Presidential Press Secretary Kula Fofana has defended President Joseph Boakai's reliance on chartered flights for international travel, citing logistical constraints and the necessity of maintaining punctuality for critical engagements.

President Boakai has faced backlash for his frequent use of chartered flights, a practice the Unity Party once criticized during the administration of former President George Weah. Addressing reporters, Fofana emphasized that the decision to charter flights is often a practical necessity.

“Sometimes flying on chartered flights is out of necessity. It is very important for the president to do when he is traveling to a very important meeting within a relatively short distance,” Fofana explained.

Logistical Challenges with Commercial Flights

Highlighting the limitations of commercial flights, Fofana recounted instances where President Boakai experienced significant delays during transit. “President Boakai normally stays a couple of hours waiting for a transit flight, something that causes him to be late for several international functions,” she said.

Fofana further elaborated, “I have been with the President where sometimes he spent a couple of hours waiting for one plane. In one airport, he sits there waiting to get to his next destination. Sometimes it takes eight hours, and sometimes he even had to do a short stay. So, it has been really, really embarrassing at times.”

Chartered Flights Not Always Funded by the Government

Fofana also clarified that not all chartered flights utilized by the President are financed by government funds. She noted that some of the flights are covered by international partners as part of collaborative efforts.

Senator Dillon’s Public Apology for Past Criticism

The debate surrounding the use of chartered flights took a new turn when Montserrado County Senator Darius Dillon, a vocal supporter of the “Rescue” government, publicly apologized for his earlier criticisms of former President Weah’s use of private jets.

Speaking on the OK Conversation program, Dillon admitted to having misunderstood the challenges faced by a president traveling without access to a private aircraft. “As Darius Dillon who campaigned against the use of private jets against former President Weah, I want to publicly apologize to him,” he stated.

Dillon acknowledged the practical justifications for chartered flights, noting, “We did not understand the constraints, the reasons, and the justifications for using private jets by the President of Liberia; we condemned former President Weah.”

He emphasized the importance of recognizing past mistakes to foster growth and understanding. “It’s good to admit when one is wrong so that the person can correct the wrong,” Dillon said, adding, “We see the need now for the use of private jets by the President of Liberia.”

Context and Implications

The public discourse highlights a shift in perspectives on the use of chartered flights, with critics acknowledging the unique challenges of presidential travel. While the debate continues, the President’s office has reiterated its commitment to transparency and practical decision-making in fulfilling the nation’s international obligations.