Africa-Press – Ghana. Political parties have expressed shock and sorrow over the death of eight Ghanaians in Wednesday’s Ghana Armed Forces helicopter crash en route to Obuasi.
The parties extended condolences to the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC), which lost several prominent members in the tragedy.
In separate interviews and statements, the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Convention People’s Party (CPP), All People’s Congress (APC), People’s National Convention (PNC), and People’s National Party (PNP) conveyed their sympathies to the bereaved families and the nation.
Among the deceased, who were attending an anti-illegal mining event in Obuasi when the accident happened, were Dr Edward Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence and NDC Director of Elections; Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation; and Alhaji Mohammed Muniru Limuna, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator and former Minister for Food and Agriculture.
Others included Dr Samuel Sarpong, NDC Vice Chairman and former Ashanti Regional Minister; Mr Samuel Aboagye, former NDC parliamentary candidate for Obuasi East; Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala; Flying Officer Malin Twum-Ampadu; and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
President John Dramani Mahama has declared three days of national mourning, with flags flying at half-mast.
Mr Richard Ahiagbah, NPP Director of Communications, described the incident as shocking. “I will never forget the moment we have had with him (Dr Omane Boamah). We hope that this was not true,” he said.
Mr Hassan Ayariga, Founder and Leader of the APC, in a statement called the crash a profound loss.
“We mourn with you in your pain. We stand with you and we support you,” he stated.
PNC Flagbearer Mr Bernard Mornah in an interview said he was devastated by the loss, especially of the government officials.
“He (Omane Boamah) was such a genuine easy-going person. He was very meticulous and precise in his work ethics. Murtala is a convicted human being who executes what he believes in. He was such an incorruptible person,” he said.
The CPP expressed solidarity with President Mahama, the NDC, and Parliament, describing the tragedy as a significant national loss. It called for a thorough investigation to prevent future occurrences.
The PNP paid tribute to the victims and praised their dedication to national development.
“We call on Ghanaians to unite in mourning and in celebrating the legacies of these fallen leaders,” the party said.
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