The Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, has directed that all national flags hoisted at public buildings across the country be restored to full mast with immediate effect, following the befitting burial and successful state funeral of the eight public officials who died in a military helicopter crash on Wednesday, August 6, in the Ashanti region.
In a statement issued on Monday, August 18, the Presidency expressed profound gratitude to Ghanaians and the international community for the overwhelming support shown since the tragedy.
The government acknowledged the solidarity of chiefs, clergy, Muslim clerics, civil society groups, the diplomatic corps, political leaders, security chiefs, and service personnel who extended condolences, offered assistance, and stood with the bereaved families during the period of mourning.
The victims include Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Samuel Aboagye, National Democratic Congress (NDC) Vice Chairman Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, and Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator, Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed.
“We are deeply moved by the outpouring of solidarity shown across the nation and beyond. Your messages of sympathy, your attendance at the state funeral, your practical assistance, and the many acts of kindness extended to the bereaved families have provided great consolation in this time of sorrow,” the statement read.
Special appreciation was also extended to individuals and corporate organisations whose support ensured that the victims received a dignified state burial, one described as a fitting farewell that honoured their memory and reflected the compassion of the Ghanaian people.
“As we return to the duties of resetting Ghana and building the country we want, let us remain united in prayer, comfort one another, and continue to support the families affected by this tragedy,” it added.
However, Stanbic Bank Ghana has donated GHS500,000 to the newly established Children’s Support Fund, set up to provide financial assistance to the children of the victims
