In the aftermath of a fatal helicopter crash that claimed the lives of two government ministers, President John Dramani Mahama has announced key interim ministerial appointments to ensure the continuity of state functions.
The President has directed the Minister for Finance, Hon. Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, to assume additional responsibilities as the Acting Minister for Defence. Similarly, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Kofi Armah Buah, will serve as Acting Minister for Environment, Science and Technology.
The appointments follow Wednesday’s tragic crash of a military helicopter en route to Obuasi. On board were the substantive Minister for Defence and the Minister for Environment, Science and Technology—both of whom died in the accident. The Ghana Armed Forces and the Ministry of Transport have launched a joint investigation into the incident, which occurred under unclear weather conditions.
President Mahama, in a statement issued Thursday morning, described the fallen officials as “patriots who served the Republic with honour and dedication.” He declared three days of national mourning starting August 7 and extended condolences to the victims’ families and the nation at large.
The incident has drawn significant national and international attention. The United States Embassy in Ghana called the crash a “painful loss to the Ghanaian people,” while Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, described it as “a heartbreaking blow to Ghana and the region,” pledging solidarity with Ghanaians in mourning.
In Ghana, the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) called for a thorough investigation, describing the incident as “a national tragedy that goes beyond politics.” The Movement for Change, led by Alan Kyerematen, urged the government to prioritise aviation safety, especially for public officials.
The crash has triggered widespread public reaction, with civil society groups, religious leaders, and ordinary citizens expressing grief and calling for greater accountability in government transportation protocols. Many have taken to social media to honour the deceased while demanding reforms to ensure safer travel for high-level officials.
While the investigation continues, President Mahama’s swift action in reassigning ministerial roles aims to maintain stability within government operations. The nation now grieves its losses and awaits clarity on what caused the deadly accident.
