Koforidua is set to host a solemn national gathering today as the final funeral rites of former Defence Minister, Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, take place at Jackson’s Park in the Eastern Regional capital.

The funeral, scheduled for 12:00 noon in the New Juaben South Municipality, is expected to draw senior government officials, executives of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), traditional leaders and members of the public to honour the memory of the late statesman.

Dr Omane Boamah, who also served as Director of Elections and Information Technology of the NDC, died tragically on August 6, 2025, in a military helicopter crash that claimed the lives of all eight persons on board. The Ghana Air Force Harbin Z-9EH helicopter, with tail number GHF 631, went down during an official operation.

The crash also claimed the lives of Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister of Environment, Science and Technology; Muniru Mohammed Limuna, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator; Samuel Sarpong, NDC Vice-Chair; Samuel Aboagye, a former parliamentary candidate; Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala; Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu; and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.

Tributes have continued to pour in from across the political divide, with many highlighting Dr. Omane Boamah’s dedication to public service, national security and democratic governance. An NDC official described him as “a committed servant of the state whose work strengthened both our party and the country.”
The funeral ceremony at Jackson’s Park is expected to be both solemn and symbolic, reflecting the national significance of the lives lost in the tragic incident. It also comes amid renewed calls for improved aviation safety and stronger institutional safeguards in public service operations.