Mahama urges Ghanaians to mourn together, not politicise tragedy
President John Dramani Mahama has appealed to Ghanaians to put aside political divisions and come together in collective mourning following the military helicopter crash that claimed eight lives on Wednesday, August 6, in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region.
In his first national address since the incident, President Mahama called for unity and compassion during what he described as one of the country’s darkest moments.
“This is not a time for division, speculation, or political point-scoring. It is a time for strength, for empathy, and for the enduring Ghanaian spirit that still stands tall when all else fails.”
He emphasised that the tragedy transcends politics and speaks to the shared humanity of all Ghanaians.
“Let our words be of comfort, our actions be of kindness, and our unity be the tribute we offer to those whose lives have been lost,” he added.
The victims of the crash included, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence, Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator, Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the NDC, Samuel Aboagye, former parliamentary candidate, Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah
The Ghana Armed Forces Z-9 helicopter was en route to Obuasi on official duties when it went off radar and crashed in a densely forested area. All eight on board perished.
In response, the President declared three days of national mourning beginning Thursday, August 7. As part of commemorative activities, an Evening of Reflections will be held at the State House on Saturday, August 9, and books of condolence will be opened at key state institutions from Sunday, August 10, to Thursday, August 14.
The mourning period will conclude with a state funeral at Black Star Square on Friday, August 15, where the nation will formally honour the deceased, hailed as patriots who died in the line of duty.
President Mahama’s call comes amid a national outpouring of grief, with tributes pouring in from political leaders, civil society, and the international community.
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