Flags return to full mast as mourning for helicopter crash victims ends
By Praisebell Rosemond Larbi
The government has directed that all national flags, which had been flying at half-mast in honour of the eight public officials who perished in a military helicopter crash on 6 August, be restored to full mast following their befitting burial and state funeral.
A statement signed by Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, on Monday, 18 August 2025, confirmed that the directive takes immediate effect, symbolising the official conclusion of the period of national mourning.
The Presidency, in its statement, expressed profound gratitude to the Ghanaian public and the international community for the overwhelming solidarity demonstrated since the tragedy.
“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 said.
Government particularly acknowledged the support of traditional rulers, the clergy, Muslim clerics, civil society groups, members of the diplomatic corps, political leaders, security chiefs and service personnel who rallied around the bereaved families and the state during the mourning period.
Special appreciation was also extended to individuals and corporate organisations whose contributions ensured that the victims received what the government described as a “dignified state burial” befitting their service to the nation. The state funeral, attended by thousands, has been described as a solemn yet fitting farewell that honoured the memory of the departed.
“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,” the statement concluded.
The tragic crash, which occurred in the Ashanti Region, claimed the lives of key state officials and plunged the nation into grief.
Those lost in the disaster include Defence Minister, Dr Edward Omane Boamah; National Democratic Congress (NDC) Vice Chairman, Dr Samuel Sarpong; Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed; Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator, Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed; Samuel Aboagye; Squadron Leader, Peter Bafemi Anala; Flying Officer, Manin Twum-Ampadu; and Sergeant, Ernest Addo Mensah.
