Ghana is in mourning following the tragic deaths of Defence Minister Edward Omane Boamah and Environment, Science and Technology Minister Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed in a military helicopter crash in the central Ashanti region. The crash, which claimed eight lives in total, has been described by Chief of Staff Julius Debrah as a “national tragedy”.
The aircraft, which was carrying three crew members and five passengers, reportedly went off the radar before crashing. Charred remains of the helicopter have surfaced on social media, though authorities have yet to confirm the cause of the accident. Flags across the country have been ordered to fly at half-mast in honour of the deceased.
Among those killed were Ghana’s Deputy National Security Coordinator and former Agriculture Minister Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, and Samuel Sarpong, Vice-Chairman of the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC). The crew members have been identified as Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
President John Dramani Mahama is said to be deeply shaken by the incident, with Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu noting that the president is feeling “down, down emotionally”.
Boamah was a prominent figure in Mahama’s administration, having previously served as communications minister and environment minister before taking over the defence portfolio. He was known for his efforts in combating jihadist threats emerging near Ghana’s northern border with Burkina Faso. His upcoming book, A Peaceful Man In An African Democracy, a tribute to the late President John Atta Mills, was set for release later this year.
Muhammed was equally influential, leading the fight against illegal gold mining locally known as Galamsey which has severely damaged Ghana’s environment. His environmental advocacy gained momentum during Mahama’s recent presidential campaign, as protests against Galamsey intensified.
This tragic incident marks a significant loss for Ghana’s leadership and national security apparatus. The country now faces the challenge of filling the void left by two of its most dedicated public servants, even as it mourns their untimely deaths.
