Acting Chief Justice, His Lordship Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie has signed the official Book of Condolence in Parliament in honour of the eight Ghanaians who lost their lives in the tragic helicopter crash on August 6, 2025.
The Acting Chief Justice Baffoe-Bonnie inscribed his condolences and reflected on the symbolism of the crash: “Today, as we pay tribute to these public servants who paid the ultimate price in the service of Ghana, may our institutions also recommit to the causes they died to champion, particularly the fight against galamsey.”
Following the solemn signing, the Ag. Chief Justice paid a courtesy call on the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, where they reflected on the national loss and discussed the collective role of state institutions in preserving the memory and legacies of the departed.
Among those killed were Ghana’s Minister for Defence, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, and Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed.
The helicopter Ghana Air Force Harbin Z-9EH tail number GHF-631—was en route from Kotoka International Airport to Obuasi. It was carrying the ministers and their team to a well-publicised event aimed at curbing illegal mining (galamsey).
The aircraft lost contact and subsequently crashed into a forested mountainside in the Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region, killing all eight on board.
The deceased included:
Dr. Edward Omane Boamah (Defence Minister)
Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed (Environment Minister and Tamale Central MP)
Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed (Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator)
Dr. Samuel Sarpong (NDC Vice-Chairman)
Samuel Aboagye (former parliamentary candidate)
Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala
Flying Officer Manean Twum-Ampadu
Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah
Tragic Loss Stirs National Mourning
Shortly after the crash, President John Mahama declared three days of national mourning, suspending all official engagements. Flags were ordered flown at half-mast and a delegation led by Chief of Staff Julius Debrah received the remains at Kotoka Airport, described as “an act of national pain.”.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) labelled the tragedy “an irreplaceable loss to the party,” extending “deepest and most heartfelt condolences” to the bereaved families, the Ghana Armed Forces, and the nation.
Communications Minister Sam Nartey George, a protégé of Defence Minister Boamah, wrote emotionally on social media: “No one has been of greater help or support to me in my political career… you cared and loved my family” .
Nationwide Condolence Book and Calls to Action Books of Condolence were opened at all relevant government ministries and Parliament from August 10 until the funeral rites on August 15 Facebook allAfrica.com . Senior officials, diplomats, public figures, and members of civil society lined up at the Defence and Environment ministries to pay respects.
Key sentiments included
Dr. Victor Asare Bampoe, Acting CEO of the National Health Insurance Authority: “The government must vigorously fight illegal mining in honour of the eight who perished.”
Deputy Minister of Defence Ernest Brogya Genfi, and former Defence Minister Dominic Nitiwul: they recalled Dr. Boamah for his affable nature and unwavering loyalty.
Catholic Archbishop of Accra, Most Rev. John Bonaventure Kwofie, praised the humility and approachability of the minister.
Diplomatic corps, including envoys from Egypt, the EU, Rwanda, Cuba, the Netherlands, and the UK—conveyed deep sorrow and recognized the ministers’ patriotism in advancing Ghana’s development agenda.
Acting AIB Ghana Commissioner John Wumborti called the late officials “heroes who died in the line of duty,” urging collective mourning and action..
International Solidarity Condolences poured in from across the globe:
The African Union Commission, via Chair Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, conveyed its “full solidarity with Ghana,” praying for the eternal peace of the departed leaders.
The United States Embassy in Ghana, the Rwandan Foreign Ministry, and other diplomatic missions offered heartfelt sympathies to the government and people Ghana.
Moving Forward: Honouring Their Duty
A recurring message at condolence sites and in speeches centered on continuing the agenda of the deceased leaders, especially the fight against illegal mining. In Parliament, Acting CJ Baffoe-Bonnie and Speaker Bagbin agreed on the need for lasting institutional commitment to these national causes.
As Ghana marks the final funeral rites on August 15, 2025, the nation is united in grief—but also in resolve to carry forward the mission of those who perished in service to the country.
What’s Next:
Parliamentary and judicial follow-ups on anti-galamsey enforcement measures.
Government pledges to strengthen aircraft safety and emergency response systems within the Ghana Armed Forces.
Comprehensive investigation into the crash by AIB Ghana, with expected preliminary findings in the coming weeks.
Source: Felix Nyaaba/expressnewsghana.com