Parliament’s Minority Caucus has expressed sorrow over the tragic military helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight persons, including two cabinet ministers, high-ranking party officials, and three military personnel.

In a heartfelt statement on Wednesday, Minority Leader Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin declared the entire nation is in mourning following the official confirmation of the crash by Chief of Staff Julius Debrah earlier in the day.

Describing the loss as one that “touches the very soul of our nation,” the Minority Leader paid tribute to the fallen, naming them as Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah; Environment, Science and Technology Minister, Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed; Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Muniru Mohammed; NDC former parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye; and National Democratic Congress Vice Chairman Dr. Samuel Sarpong.

The trio of military personnel who perished in the line of duty 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 with searing emotional weight.

In a deeply personal reflection, Afenyo-Markin mourned his cross-party colleagues, recounting warm memories of mutual respect and collaboration beyond political lines.

Of Dr. Murtala Mohammed, he said the two had shared “countless moments of genuine discourse about Ghana’s future,” noting his unwavering commitment to environmental protection.

He remembered Dr. Omane Boamah as “a scholar’s intellect combined with a patriot’s heart,” whose vision was to modernise the armed forces while preserving the values that uphold 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 said, echoing the national mood of raw and unified grief.

The Minority Leader extended condolences on behalf of his caucus to President Mahama and the affected families, pledging full parliamentary support during this dark chapter.

“To all Ghanaians who mourn with heavy hearts, know that your loved ones did not die in vain,” the statement assured.

Calling for the nation to honour the legacy of the deceased, Afenyo-Markin urged Ghanaians to rally behind the Armed Forces, protect the environment, and renew their dedication to national service and 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.