Accra: Acting Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie has extended heartfelt condolences to President John Mahama, bereaved families, and the nation following the August 6 helicopter crash. A statement issued by his office described the incident as a 'heart-breaking tragedy' that had left the nation in mourning. The victims, including two Ministers, were en route to Obuasi in the Ashanti Region to perform official duties.
According to Ghana News Agency, the victims were not only public servants but also patriots whose lives were dedicated to the service of the country. The statement emphasized that their untimely passing is a personal loss to their loved ones and a grievous blow to the country they served faithfully. The Judiciary and the Judicial Service of Ghana expressed solidarity with the President, the government, and all bereaved families as the nation grappled with the profound tragedy.
The statement conveyed a prayer that the Almighty God grants the souls of the departed eternal rest and provides strength, comfort, and healing to all affected by this calamity. It urged national unity in the face of tragedy, calling for the country to forge ahead in unity as they mourn the tragic death of the eight citizens. The legacy of courage, selflessness, and devotion to duty of the deceased is hoped to inspire the nation.
Among the crash victims were Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Minister of Defence; Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation; Alhaji Mohammed Muniru Limuna, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator and former Minister for Food and Agriculture; and Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and former Ashanti Regional Minister. Other victims included Mr. Samuel Aboagye, former NDC Parliamentary Candidate for Obuasi East; Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala; Flying Officer Malin Twum-Ampadu; and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
In response to the tragedy, President Mahama has declared three days of national mourning, with flags flying at half-mast indefinitely. The officials were attending the Responsible Co-operative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP), an anti-illegal mining initiative in Obuasi.