Moses Klu Mensah urges Ghanaians to cherish unity following helicopter crash tragedy
The Vice Chairman of the USA chapter of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr Moses Klu Mensah, has admonished Ghanaians to hold on to the unity displayed in the aftermath of the August 6 military helicopter crash, saying such togetherness is vital in building a stronger nation.
Mr Mensah described the tragedy as “pure heartache” that has left a lasting mark on the nation’s memory.
The crash claimed the lives of eight individuals, including prominent state officials and dedicated military personnel, while on a mission to Obuasi in the Ashanti Region to engage communities in the fight against illegal mining.
The victims included Dr Edward Omane Boamah, Defence Minister; Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister for Environment, Science and Technology; Dr Samuel Sarpong, NDC Vice Chairman; Alhaji Limuna Mohammed Muniru, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator; and Samuel Aboagye, Acting Deputy Director General in charge of Relief and Protocol at NADMO.
The crew comprised Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manaen Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
Mr Mensah recounted how the Z-9 military helicopter vanished from radar shortly after leaving Accra, later found to have crashed in a forest near Sikaman.
President John Dramani Mahama declared three days of national mourning, cancelling engagements, and ordering flags to be flown at half-mast.
The Vice emphasised that the loss transcended politics, noting, “We lost a generation in a moment. These men served our nation selflessly, and they gave their all.”
He extended condolences to the bereaved families and prayed that such a tragedy never befalls the nation again.
Mr Mensah also recalled joining his boss, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Export-Import Bank, Honourable Sylvester Mensah, and other colleagues to lay a wreath at the Jubilee House in honour of the fallen.
He said the emotional atmosphere there reflected the collective grief of Ghanaians across the country.
He commended the solidarity shown by citizens, including leaders and members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), describing it as a reminder that “beyond politics, backgrounds, and differences, we are one people.”
The politician further urged Ghanaians to use the tragedy as a call to serve with dedication, show love to one another, forgive quickly, and focus on building a united and resilient nation.
“Life is short and unpredictable. In the end, love and service to others are the true legacies we can leave behind,” he added.
BY TIMES REPORTER
