President John Dramani Mahama says the tragic military helicopter crash that claimed eight lives on Wednesday is a deep personal loss to him, as he had close personal relationships with many of the deceased.
In a national broadcast on Thursday evening, the President named all eight victims and paid emotional tribute to their character and legacy, describing the incident as not just a national disaster but a moment of deep personal grief.
“This tragedy represents a deep personal loss for me,” Mahama said. “I shared close bonds with many of these individuals who died.”
He remembered Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence, as “a brilliant and dedicated leader” who died in the line of duty. Reflecting on the late Minister for Environment, Science and Technology and MP for Tamale Central, Alhaji Dr. Murtala Mohammed, Mahama said he was “a passionate voice for his constituents and a champion for environmental stewardship.”
Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna, the Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator, was described by the President as “a humble yet effective public servant,” while Dr. Samuel Sarpong, the Vice Chairman of the NDC, was remembered as “a respected statesman.”
Mr. Samuel Aboagye, Deputy Director-General of NADMO and former parliamentary candidate, was praised as “a promising leader.”
President Mahama also honoured the memory of the three Ghana Air Force personnel who died in the crash: Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manaen (Tsum) Twum Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah; saying they “embodied the best of their profession.”
“These eight individuals dedicated their lives to Ghana’s progress. That their final moments were spent in service is a testament to their unwavering commitment,” he said. “We have lost some of our nation’s brightest minds.”
READ: Gov’t sets up board of inquiry to investigate helicopter crash
He urged the nation to unite in compassion and reflection, stating: “Your loss is our loss – a loss of dedicated public servants, intellectuals, and individuals who tirelessly worked for a better Ghana.”
Mahama also addressed the ongoing questions about the cause of the crash. He assured the public that the Ghana Armed Forces had set up a full Investigative Board of Inquiry. He added that the flight data and cockpit voice recorders had been retrieved and that the investigation would be transparent and thorough.
Three days of national mourning are currently being observed, with flags flying at half-mast across the country. A candle-lighting and flower-laying ceremony is ongoing at the Ceremonial Garden at the Presidency, and an Evening of Reflections and Memorials is scheduled for Saturday at the State House.
READ: Mahama sets Aug 15 for State funeral of helicopter crash victims
A state funeral will be held at the Black Star Square on Friday, August 15, following a week of condolence book openings across key government and party institutions.
“Though they are gone from our sight, they remain forever in the spirit of the nation they so faithfully served,” the President concluded.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
