President John Mahama has directed that all national flags be flown at half-mast across the country following the tragic crash of a military helicopter in the Adansi area of the Ashanti Region.
Chief of Staff Julius Debrah announced the directive in a statement on Wednesday, describing the incident as a national tragedy.
“I have the unpleasant duty, sadly, to announce a national tragedy involving the crash of a military helicopter in the Adansi area,” Mr. Debrah said.
The crash claimed the lives of two ministers, along with six others, were en route to Obuasi for official duties.
Among the deceased are:
Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence
Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, MP and Minister for Environment, Science and Technology
Muniru Mohammed Lemunade, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator and former Minister for Food and Agriculture
Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chair of the NDC
Mr. Samuel Aboagye, a former parliamentary candidate
The fallen military officers have been identified as:
Squadron Leader Peter Bafimi Anala
Flying Officer Manim Twum Ampadu
Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensa
“The President and government extend our condolences and sympathies to the families of our comrades and the servicemen who died in service to the country,” Mr. Debrah stated.