Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Shamima Muslim has stated that President John Dramani Mahama is “deeply broken” by the recent helicopter crash that claimed eight lives, including prominent government officials.
Speaking on TV3’s “Key Points,” Muslim conveyed the president’s profound grief and emphasized the government’s appreciation for the media’s handling of the tragedy. She also urged journalists to uphold moral and professional standards in their reporting.
A Time for Empathy, Not Division
Following the fatal crash, which killed Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah and seven others, President Mahama issued a national address calling for unity and compassion. He cautioned against speculation and political opportunism, stressing that this is a time for the nation to come together and offer collective support to the bereaved families.
“This is not a time for division, speculation, or political point-scoring,” the president said. “It is a time for strength, for empathy, and for the enduring Ghanaian spirit that still stands tall when all else has failed.”
He extended his condolences to the families, the Ghana Armed Forces, and the National Democratic Congress, which lost valued members in the disaster.
Victims of the Helicopter Crash
The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) confirmed that the helicopter, which departed from Accra en route to Obuasi, lost radar contact and crashed on Wednesday, August 6. Eyewitnesses reported that the aircraft was “burned beyond recognition.”
The Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, announced that the following individuals tragically lost their lives:
- Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Defence Minister
- Murtala Mohammed, Minister for Environment
- Samuel Sarpong, former Ashanti Regional Minister
- Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator
- Samuel Aboagye, former Member of Parliament and Vice Chairman of the NDC
- Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala (Crew Member)
- Flying Officer Mane-Twum Ampadu (Crew Member)
- Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah (Crew Member)
The nation continues to mourn the loss of these dedicated public servants and brave crew members.
