Following the formal announcement earlier today by the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, confirming the tragic loss of life in today’s military helicopter crash, I wish to express my profound grief and that of the Minority in Parliament over this devastating accident that has claimed eight precious Ghanaian lives, including two distinguished Cabinet Ministers and dedicated Public Servants who gave their all in service to our beloved Ghana.

A Nation in Mourning

The loss of Defence Minister Dr Edward Omane Boamah, Environment Minister Dr Alhaji Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Muniru Mohammed, NDC former Parliamentary Candidate Samuel Aboagye, NDC National First Vice Chairman Samuel Sarpong, and our three valiant Military Personnel—Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Mane-Twum Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah—represents a profound human loss that touches the very soul of our Nation.

These were fathers, husbands, sons, and devoted patriots who awakened this fateful Wednesday morning with the noble intention of serving Ghana.

Personal Reflections

I must speak from the heart about two men I knew not as political opponents, but as fellow Ghanaians united in our love for this country. Dr Alhaji Murtala Mohammed and I may have sat across the parliamentary aisle, but we shared countless moments of genuine discourse about Ghana’s future. His passion for environmental protection transcended party politics, and he possessed that rare quality of listening with intent to understand.

Dr Edward Omane Boamah brought to his role as Defence Minister a scholar’s intellect combined with a patriot’s heart. In our private conversations, I witnessed a man deeply committed to modernising our armed forces whilst preserving the values that make Ghana’s military a source of national pride. These personal losses remind us that behind every political position lies a human being— someone’s beloved family member, someone’s trusted friend.

Condolences and Support

To His Excellency the President, I extend my sincere condolences and the full support of the Minority in Parliament in these difficult times. Your loss is our loss; your grief is our grief. In this moment of national tragedy, we stand united with you as Ghanaians, mourning together.

To the grieving families of all eight victims—Government Ministers, members of the Majority Caucus, NDC Members, Military Personnel, and Public Servants alike—our hearts go out to you in this darkest hour. To all Ghanaians who mourn with heavy hearts, know that your loved ones did not die in vain.

Honouring Their Legacy

Let us honour these eight souls by supporting our Armed Forces, protecting Ghana’s environment, and working together for our nation’s security and prosperity. Let us channel our grief into renewed determination to build the Ghana they envisioned—where public service is viewed as a sacred trust and every citizen can contribute to our national progress.

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.

Signed
ALEXANDER KWAMENA AFENYO-MARKIN
MINORITY LEADER