Chief of Staff Urges Unity in Tribute to Ghana’s Helicopter Crash Victims
Chief of Staff Julius Debrah has called on Ghanaians to remain united and uphold the enduring values of the eight victims of the August 6 military helicopter crash.
Speaking at the Evening of Reflections and Memorial Ceremony on Saturday, August 9, Debrah said the fallen leaders and service members would want the nation to “wipe our tears” and carry forward the principles they stood for — patriotism, selfless leadership, bravery, and devotion to God and country.
Honoring the Values of the Fallen
“On this day, I am sure our comrades will be urging us to wipe our tears. They would be telling us to remain united as a people and as a nation. More importantly, they would be urging us to continue striving to live by the values they stood for and died for,” he said.
The Chief of Staff added that the tragedy serves as a reminder of Ghana’s spirit of oneness, a spirit he said has been evident in the unity displayed across political and social divides.
The Tragic Loss
The crash, which occurred in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region, claimed the lives of:
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Dr Edward Omane Boamah, Defence Minister
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Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation
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Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator
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Dr Samuel Sarpong, National Vice Chairman of the NDC
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Samuel Aboagye, former parliamentary candidate
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Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala
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Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu
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Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah
National Mourning and Funeral Arrangements
As part of the three-day national mourning period declared by the President, the government has announced the burial rites for the two Muslim victims — Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed and Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed.
In line with Islamic tradition, Janazah prayers will be held on Sunday, August 10 at 2:00 p.m. at the Forecourt of the State House, followed by burial at the Military Cemetery in Accra.
An inter-denominational state funeral for all eight victims is scheduled for Friday, August 15, at the Black Star Square.
Summary:
Chief of Staff Julius Debrah’s message following the Ghana helicopter crash is one of unity, shared grief, and commitment to the values the victims lived and died for. As the nation mourns, his call is for Ghanaians to honor their memory through service, patriotism, and solidarity.
source: myjoyonline
