Today, Ghana is bidding an emotional farewell to the eight victims of the August 6 helicopter crash, as the long-awaited state funeral takes place at the Black Star Square in Accra.
The solemn ceremony, attended by President John Mahama, top government officials, security chiefs, religious leaders, and thousands of citizens, is being held to honour the high-profile public servants and military officers who perished in the tragedy.
The victims include Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation Alhaji Dr. brahim Murtala Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed, former Ashanti Regional Minister and NDC Vice Chairman Dr. Samuel Sarpong, and Obuasi East parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye.
Also among the dead were three members of the Ghana Armed Forces crew: Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
The crash, which occurred at Adansi Akrofuom in the Ashanti Region as the officials were travelling for the launch of the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP), left the nation in shock and grief.
Investigations into the cause of the accident are still underway, though aviation authorities have confirmed that the black box was retrieved from the crash site.
Today’s state funeral is blending Christian, Islamic, and military traditions. Two victims, in accordance with Islamic customs, were already buried earlier, while six others will be laid to rest at the Military Cemetery in Tse Addo with full military honours.
In the lead-up to today’s rites, books of condolence were opened across government ministries, security installations, and party offices, allowing citizens to express their grief and solidarity with the bereaved families.
Security around the Black Star Square has been tightened, with the government urging the media and mourners to observe strict decorum throughout the ceremony.
The funeral is being broadcast live nationwide to allow all Ghanaians to participate in the farewell.
The burial at Tse Addo will mark the final journey home for the six victims, while the nation continues to grapple with the painful loss of eight of its dedicated sons.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
