Ato Forson, Kofi Buah to act as Defence and Environment Ministers

President John Dramani Mahama has directed Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson to act as Minister for Defence following the tragic death of Dr Edward Omane Boamah.

A statement from the Presidency also named Lands and Natural Resources Minister Mr. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah as acting Minister for Environment, Science and Technology, replacing Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed.

The directive followed the fatal crash of a Ghana Armed Forces Z-9 helicopter on Wednesday, which claimed the lives of eight persons en route to Obuasi for an anti-illegal mining event.

The deceased included Dr Omane Boamah, Dr Murtala Muhammed, Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator; Dr Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC); Mr Samuel Aboagye, former parliamentary candidate for Obuasi East; Squadron Leader Peter Baafemi Anala; Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu; and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.

Flags have been flying at half-mast nationwide, and President Mahama has declared three days of national mourning.

Tributes have poured in from citizens, international organisations, and diplomatic missions.

Mr. Zia Choudhury, United Nations Resident Coordinator, issued a statement on Wednesday expressing condolences to the Government and families of the deceased.

“It is with profound sorrow that we receive the tragic news of the fatal crash involving the Ghana Airforce Z9 helicopter, claiming the lives of distinguished Government of Ghana officials…

“The United Nations family in Ghana mourns with the nation in this moment of deep grief. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, and to the Government and people of Ghana, as we together face this painful loss.

“This tragedy is not only a national wound but also a loss felt across the international community. We stand united at this time of mourning. We honour the memory of those who have passed, with hope for their lasting peace,” he stated.

The officials were attending the launch of the Responsible Co-operative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP) in Obuasi.

Source: GNA

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