Former Eastern Regional Minister Seth Acheampong has called on the state to confront its chronic failure to equip the security services following the fatal military helicopter crash that killed eight Ghanaians, including two cabinet ministers and three Air Force personnel.
Acheampong’s comments come at a time of national mourning following the August 5 crash of a Ghana Air Force Z-9 helicopter in the Adansi Akrofuom District.
“As a country, if we are going to stay in this practice, we must bite the bullet. We need to ensure that we provide the necessary vehicles and logistics. It is not a luxury”
Seth Acheampong, Former Eastern Regional Minister
The aircraft had gone off radar while transporting senior officials, ultimately claiming the lives of Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah; Environment, Science and Innovation Minister Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed; Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Muniru Mohammed; NDC Vice Chairman Dr. Samuel Sarpong; and former parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye.
Three Air Force personnel – Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah – also perished.
Acheampong stressed that while the nation is expected to investigate the crash, the process must be handled with compassion and prudence.
“My prayer is that going forward, we should hasten but be very cautious in going through the motions of helping unravel some of the gaps that may emerge in the investigations, so we don’t hurt souls. Because this is a tragedy.
“This is really sad! I can’t believe this misfortune has struck our country, Ghana”
Seth Acheampong, Former Eastern Regional Minister
His remarks echo a broader national sentiment, as President John Dramani Mahama has declared three days of national mourning beginning Thursday, August 7. Flags are flying at half-mast nationwide, and all state functions involving celebration or entertainment have been suspended.
Investigation and Tributes
The call for a measured investigation has also been echoed by the Bureau of Public Safety, which demanded that the inquiry be fully independent. The Bureau noted: “The investigation must be independent, and it must be credible. Public confidence in our military and aviation systems must not be allowed to erode.”
Beyond Ghana, African leaders have expressed solidarity. Kenyan President William Ruto extended his condolences in a statement posted online.
“We extend our condolences to H.E. President John Mahama, the Government, the people of Ghana, and the bereaved families following a tragic helicopter crash that killed eight people, including two ministers.
“We stand in solidarity with Ghana in mourning this profound loss and offer our thoughts and prayers during this time of sorrow. Rest in peace”
President William Ruto of Kenya
Namibia’s President Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, in a message addressed to President Mahama, said the loss of these dedicated leaders is not only a “tragedy for Ghana but for the African continent as a whole.” She described their untimely passing as a void in public service and leadership that will be “deeply mourned.”
Referencing historical ties between Namibia and Ghana, she added that the entire Namibian people stand in unity with the people of Ghana as the nation mourns its “great sons and daughters.”
“May the souls of the departed rest in eternal peace, and may the Government and people of Ghana find strength and comfort during this difficult time”
President Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah of Namibia
Acheampong has meanwhile renewed his demand for structural improvements in the country’s security preparedness. “We must build the capacity of those flying, sailing, and on the ground,” he insisted, arguing that real reforms must follow this national loss.
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