In a swift response to a devastating military helicopter crash that claimed the lives of several top officials, including the Minister of Defence, Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama has appointed Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson to assume the additional role of acting Minister of Defence.
The presidency announced the move on Thursday, as the nation mourns the tragic loss of its leaders.
Similarly, the minister for lands and natural resources, “Emmanuel kofi Armah Buah has been appointed to act as minister for environment, science and technology until further notice.” The presidency noted.
Furthermore, the president also declared a three days mourning period starting on Thursday, by “suspending all official engagements for the rest of the week.”
The crash, which occurred on Wednesday, involved a military helicopter carrying five government officials and three air force crew members to the gold mining town of Obuasi.
None of the eight people on board survived. Among the casualties were Defence Minister Edward Omane Boamah and Minister for Environment, Science and Technology Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, a significant blow to President Mahama’s administration.
The Ghanaian authorities have not yet provided an official explanation for the cause of the crash. An investigation is expected to be launched to determine the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.
The appointment of Cassiel Ato Forson, and Emmanuel kofi, to a dual ministerial role underscores the urgency of filling the void left by the deceased Defence Minister and Evironmental Minister.
The move is seen as a way to maintain government stability and continuity during this period of national mourning and uncertainty.
Flags across the west African country are expected to be flown at half-mast as Ghanaians remember the fallen officials. The presidency and the government have extended their condolences and solidarity to the families of the victims, acknowledging their service to the nation. The helicopter crash has sent shockwaves through Ghana’s political landscape, prompting an outpouring of grief and tributes from across the political spectrum.
