Deputy Presidential Spokesperson, Shamima Muslim, has called on Ghanaians to continue paying their respects to the victims of the August 6 military helicopter crash by visiting memorial sites and signing Books of Condolence at designated locations.
Speaking in an interview, Ms. Muslim confirmed that Books of Condolence have been opened across various institutions, including the National Democratic Congress (NDC) headquarters, the Ghana Armed Forces Command (GAF) Headquarters, the Ministry of Environment, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the homes of the victims.
“The memorial grounds are still open to the public at the Forecourt of the Jubilee Gardens and the Flagstaff House. From today until the 14th, the Books of Condolence will be available, and on the 15th, there will be a State funeral and service at Independence Square for all the fallen heroes”
Shamima Muslim, Deputy Presidential Spokesperson
The upcoming State funeral will mark the final national tribute to the victims, who included cabinet ministers, military officers, and political figures. The ceremony at Independence Square is expected to draw thousands as the country comes together to grieve a loss described by officials as “deep and unprecedented.”
On August 10, Ghanaians bid farewell to Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, and MP for Tamale Central, as well as Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator.
In keeping with Islamic tradition, Janazah prayers were held at the Forecourt of the State House, followed by burial at the Military Cemetery near Burma Camp.
The burial was attended by President John Dramani Mahama, Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, Speaker of Parliament Hon. Alban Bagbin, the National Chief Imam, Sheikh Osmanu Nuhu Sharubutu, family members, MPs, and members of the public.
National Mourning and Calls for Compensation
The government declared a three-day national mourning period beginning Thursday, August 7. The programme included a flower-laying ceremony and, on August 9, an evening of reflection and memorial service.
The August 6 crash in the Adansi Akrofuom District also claimed the lives of Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the NDC, Samuel Aboagye, a former parliamentary candidate, and three crew members – Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
According to the Ghana Armed Forces, the Z-9 helicopter carrying three crew members and five passengers went “off the radar” shortly after departing Accra at 09:12 GMT. It was heading to Obuasi for an anti-illegal mining operation when the incident occurred.
A search-and-rescue mission later confirmed that all eight on board had died. The Armed Forces described the loss as a “tragic blow” to the nation’s ongoing security operations and vowed full cooperation with investigative bodies.
Former Speaker of Parliament, Prof. Aaron Mike Oquaye, has urged the government to provide substantial compensation to the victims’ families, stressing that those who died were serving the nation at the time.
“They were on a national carrier, involved in an accident while on national service. You wouldn’t want this to be contentious – make an offer that is reasonable and settle them”
Prof. Aaron Mike Oquaye, Former Speaker of Parliament
His comments have added to growing calls for a dignified, swift, and fair resolution for the families left behind.
