Hot Source…After tragic helicopter crash
President John Dramani Mahama has directed Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson to act as Minister for Defence, following the tragic death of Dr Edward Omane Boamah.
A statement from the Presidency also named Lands and Natural Resources Minister, Mr Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah as the acting Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology, replacing Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed.
The directive followed the fatal crash of a Ghana Armed Forces Z-9 helicopter on Wednesday, which claimed the lives of eight persons en route to Obuasi for an anti-illegal mining event.
The deceased included Dr Omane Boamah, Dr Murtala Muhammed, Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator; Dr Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC); Samuel Aboagye, former parliamentary candidate for Obuasi East; Squadron Leader Peter Baafemi Anala; Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu; and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
Flags have been flying at half-mast nationwide, and President Mahama has declared a three-day period of national mourning.
Tributes have poured in from citizens, international organisations, and diplomatic missions.
Mr Zia Choudhury, United Nations Resident Coordinator, issued a statement on Wednesday, expressing condolences to the Government and families of the deceased.
“It is with profound sorrow that we receive the tragic news of the fatal crash involving the Ghana Airforce Z9 helicopter, claiming the lives of distinguished Government of Ghana officials…
“The United Nations family in Ghana mourns with the nation in this moment of deep grief. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, and to the Government and people of Ghana, as we together face this painful loss.
“This tragedy is not only a national wound but also a loss felt across the international community. We stand united at this time of mourning. We honour the memory of those who have passed, with hope for their lasting peace,” he stated.
The officials were attending the launch of the Responsible Co-operative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP) in Obuasi.
The Central Regional Peace Council, has said Wednesday’s helicopter crash that killed eight prominent Ghanaians is a stark reminder of the existential threat illegal mining poses to Ghana’s progress and development.
The Council emphasised that illegal mining, also known as “galamsey,” significantly undermined the country’s environmental health, social stability and economic foundations.
The victims, were on their way to the launch of the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (COMSDEP) in Obuasi, in the Ashanti Region.
The new programme aims to build on the strengths and lessons learned from the Community Mining Scheme and the National Alternative Employment and Livelihood Programme.
Offering condolences to the grieving families and the nation, Mr Charles Amoh, Regional Secretary to the Council, described the incident as “deeply regrettable national tragedy” and stressed that “illegal mining must be tamed.”
Mr Amoh, could not comprehend why a country once celebrated for its gold reserves and rich natural vegetation beauty, was grappling with an existential threat of illegal mining.
He said rivers once vital for agriculture, fishing, and drinking had turned toxic, forests that sheltered countless species had been decimated, and local communities were suffering various health problems.
While calling for support to end the menace of illegal mining, he said, “the menace may yield short-term gain, but it steals the nation’s future.
“It’s destroying our forests, poisoning our waters and destroying the very land that feeds and sustains Ghana. True wealth lies in preserving our heritage, not plundering it,” Mr Amoh declared.
He noted that the overwhelming and heartfelt global tributes served as a profound testament to the extraordinary dedication, unwavering commitment and impactful contributions of the deceased.
Such recognitions, he said, highlighted the invaluable legacy the deceased had left, marked by hard work, integrity and a spirit worthy of admiration and emulation by future generations.
Furthermore, Mr Amoh commended President Mahama for his decisive and compassionate leadership in declaring a three-day state mourning, acknowledging that this gesture not only honoured the memory of the departed but also unified the nation in a period of mourning and reflection.
He urged that the period be used as an opportunity to celebrate the life and achievements of the deceased, to inspire others to carry forward their exemplary principles and dedication to service.
However, he urged Ghanaians to live in peace, emphasising tolerance, cooperation and unity as foundations for the country’s stability and development.
He encouraged the citizenry to work together in unity, respect one another’s differences, and promote peace across all communities.
Civil society organisation SEND Ghana has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of two ministers and six other officials on August 6, 2025.
In a statement, the organisation extended its heartfelt condolences to the Government of Ghana, the bereaved families, and all affected by what it described as a profound national loss.
The victims included cabinet ministers, senior government officials, and members of the military, all of whom, it said, had served the country with distinction and dedication.
“These individuals served their country with commitment and distinction, and their untimely passing is a great loss not only to their families but to the entire nation,” the statement said.
SEND Ghana also pledged its solidarity with President Mahama, the government, and the people of Ghana during this difficult time, describing the incident as a moment of collective grief for the nation.
“At this difficult time, we stand in solidarity with His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama, the Government of Ghana, and all Ghanaians as we navigate this period of national grief,” the statement said.
The organisation called for unity and reflection as the nation mourns the lives lost and honours the legacies of the fallen public servants.
“May their souls rest in perfect peace and may their legacy of service continue to inspire us all,” it added.
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