Helicopter crash: This isn’t a time for division or political point-scoring – Mahama

In a defining moment of leadership, President John Dramani Mahama has called on Ghanaians to rise above politics and sorrow to honour the eight fallen public servants who died in a tragic military helicopter crash on August 6th.

Delivering his national address with a tone both somber and steady, the President declared: “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.”

The President emphasized that the loss transcends party, region, and religion. “This is a moment of shared heartbreak, a time to reflect on the preciousness of life, the sacrifices of public service, and our gratitude for those who dedicate themselves to the well-being of Ghana.”

Among those who died were high-profile government officials, including Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah and Dr. Murtala Mohammed, Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology. The crash also claimed the lives of Air Force officers Squadron Leader Peter Anala, Flying Officer Tsum Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo.

President Mahama paid specific tribute to the Armed Forces personnel, calling them “dedicated members of our Air Force, embodying the best of their profession.”

On the broader impact of the crash, Mahama said, “We have lost some of our nation’s brightest minds. Though they are gone from our sight, they remain forever in the spirit of the nation they so faithfully served.”

He also urged restraint in public discourse: “Let us not rush to conclusions. Let us not politicize tragedy. Let us instead honour the dead with our dignity and unity.”

The President announced a state funeral will be held on August 15th at Black Star Square, with an Evening of Reflections to precede it on August 9th at the forecourt of the State House. Books of condolence are to be opened at major ministries and institutions starting August 10th.

The helicopter crash occurred on August 6 while top officials and security personnel were on a national mission to launch the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skill Development Program (rCOMSDEP). The initiative, which seeks to transform Ghana’s small-scale mining sector through responsible practices and alternative livelihood training, was considered a cornerstone of the government’s anti-galamsey strategy.