Parliament’s Minority Caucus has expressed deep sorrow following the tragic military helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight individuals, including two cabinet ministers, senior party officials, and three members of the Ghana Armed Forces.
In a statement on Wednesday, Minority Leader Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin said the entire country is in mourning after Chief of Staff Julius Debrah confirmed the devastating incident earlier in the day.
He described the loss as one that “touches the very soul of our nation,” paying tribute to the deceased: Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah; Minister of Environment, Science and Technology, Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed; Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator, Muniru Mohammed; former NDC parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye; and NDC Vice Chairman Dr. Samuel Sarpong.
The three military personnel who also perished were Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Mane-Twum Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
“These were fathers, husbands, sons, and devoted patriots who awakened this fateful Wednesday morning with the noble intention of serving Ghana,” the statement read.
Reflecting personally, Afenyo-Markin shared memories of mutual respect and collaboration with his late colleagues beyond political divides.
On Dr. Murtala Mohammed, he recalled “countless moments of genuine discourse about Ghana’s future,” highlighting his steadfast commitment to environmental protection. Of Dr. Omane Boamah, he said, “a scholar’s intellect combined with a patriot’s heart,” praising his vision to modernise the armed forces while preserving the dignity of Ghana’s military.
“These personal losses remind us that behind every political position lies a human being—someone’s beloved family member, someone’s trusted friend,” he added, capturing the nation’s collective grief.
On behalf of his caucus, the Minority Leader extended condolences to President John Dramani Mahama and the affected families, assuring them of Parliament’s full support during this painful period.
“To all Ghanaians who mourn with heavy hearts, know that your loved ones did not die in vain,” the statement affirmed.
Afenyo-Markin further urged the nation to honour the legacy of the deceased by strengthening support for the Armed Forces, advancing environmental protection, and deepening national unity.
“May their souls rest in perfect peace, and may their memories remain everlasting beacons of light, guiding us towards a more united and prosperous Ghana,” the statement concluded.
