On Wednesday, August 6th, 2025, our nation awoke to a tragedy that would forever cast its shadow over the heart of Ghana.

A Ghana Armed Forces helicopter, carrying some of our most dedicated public servants and gallant military personnel, went down in the Ashanti Region.

In a single, cruel moment, eight bright lights in our national life were extinguished. It is difficult to put into words the weight of such loss. The grief we feel is not only the sorrow of individuals but the collective mourning of a people.

Ghana has lost leaders whose work touched every corner of our Republic — leaders whose service was not measured in days, but intheir impact and the lives they touched. For me, this is not only a moment of national tragedy but also personal heartbreak. These were not just colleagues in public service; they were brothers in arms, trusted advisors, and friends whose counsel and loyalty I valued beyond measure.

Theirs was a journey of duty. On that fateful day, they were in active service to the Republic, pursuing assignments vital to our people’s safety, security, and progress.

They did not seek recognition or applause; they were doing what they had always done — giving of themselves, without hesitation, for the good of Ghana.

That is the nature of accurate service. It is often quiet, often unseen, but always driven by love for country and a deep sense of responsibility to one’s fellow citizens. Their final act was one of service, which is how they will be remembered.

Among those we lost were:

Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence — a trusted friend, a man of sharp intellect and deep conviction. As Minister, he began bold reforms to modernize our Armed Forces, enhance their capabilities, and uphold the highest standards of professionalism. His energy, clarity of vision, and patriotism were unmatched.

Hon. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister for Environment, Science and Technology — passionate, eloquent, and deeply committed to protecting Ghana’s environment while advancing scientific innovation. He believed the fight for our planet’s future was also the fight for Ghana’s future.

Alhaji Mohammad Muniru Limuna, Deputy National Security Coordinator — calm, discreet, and courageous. His work, much of it unseen, played a vital role in safeguarding the peace and stability of our Republic.

Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress — a man of humility and loyalty, respected by colleaguesand opponents alike. He was a tireless organizer and a faithful servant of our democracy.

Samuel Aboagye — a young and promising politician, who served as Deputy DirectorGeneral of NADMO with dedication and pride. He loved and cherished the opportunity to serve his country wholeheartedly.

Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah — The three gallantcrew members of the Ghana Armed Forces were disciplined, highly skilled airmen whose lives were defined by the military values ofhonour, courage, and commitment.

They were the silent guardians of our skies, ensuring the safety of every mission they undertook. Each of these men had a story. Each had a family they cherished, a vision they pursued, and a heart that beat with love for Ghana.

I recall many private moments — late-night calls to discuss pressing matters of state, quiet words of encouragement before a difficult decision, shared laughter in moments of relief after challengesovercome. They were not only men of duty, but men of warmth, kindness, and humanity. They believed in the Ghana we are building — a nation of opportunity, justice, and unity Their absence leaves a void in our leadership and my heart. But the values they lived by — integrity, humility, loyalty — will remain a guiding light for all who follow in their footsteps.

The temptation to ask “Why?” is strong in moments like this. But even as we seek answers, we must remember that unity is the most accurate way to honour them.

This is not a time for division or speculation. It is a time to support each other, comfort the grieving, and renew our shared commitment to the ideals they stood for.

The Government of Ghana has ordered a complete and transparent investigation into the cause of the crash. We owe it to their memory — and to every Ghanaian who serves — to ensure that lessons are learned, and such a tragedy is never repeated.

Though their voices have fallen silent, their legacy will endure. It will be seen in the stronger Armed Forces they helped shape, the environmental protections they fought for, the security measures they championed, and the democratic institutions they strengthened.

May their stories inspire future generations to serve with the same courage, humility, and dedication.

On behalf of a grateful nation, I extend my deepest sympathies to their families, friends, and all whose lives they touched.

May the Almighty God grant them eternal rest. May He heal the broken hearts of those they leave behind. And may Ghana — the nation for which they lived and died — remain forever worthy of their sacrifice.