Honour the legacy of victims of helicopter crash with unity – Tsatsu Tsikata

Renowned lawyer and veteran stalwart of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Tsatsu Tsikata, has expressed profound grief over the loss of eight distinguished Ghanaians in the August 6 military helicopter crash.

The tragedy, which has plunged the nation into mourning, claimed the lives of senior government officials and dedicated members of the Ghana Armed Forces.

Speaking at the Evening of Reflections and Memorial held at the Forecourt of the State House on Saturday, August 9, Mr. Tsikata reflected on the magnitude of the loss and its impact on both the victims’ families and the country. He expressed hope that the devastating event would serve as a rallying point for unity and reconciliation across political and social divides.

The memorial honoured the lives of Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, NDC Vice Chairman Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Muniru Mohammed, former parliamentary candidate for Obuasi East Samuel Aboagye, Environment Minister Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, and three members of the Ghana Armed Forces — Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.

The eight were travelling to Obuasi to launch the Responsible Co-operative Mining and Skills Development Programme (COMSDEP), a government initiative aimed at addressing the scourge of illegal mining. Their aircraft went down in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region, cutting short the lives of individuals described as dedicated to public service and national progress.

“It is a sad day indeed,” Mr. Tsikata said. “Their loss has been in very tragic circumstances. The greatest pain will be felt by their families, their spouses, and their children.”

He emphasised that the dedication, service, and principles the victims stood for must not be forgotten.

“We can only hope and pray that what they lived and died for will be a lesson for all of us,” he advised.

Aligning with earlier remarks made by President John Mahama, Mr. Tsikata urged that the tragedy become “a lesson in the healing of the nation, and that is a legacy that they will leave behind,” adding that their memory should help bridge political divisions and foster national cohesion.

The ceremony, attended by senior government officials, political leaders, diplomats, and grieving families, was both solemn and reflective.