Acting Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie has appealed to the people of Ghana to stand together in solidarity and resist the temptation to politicise the recent tragedy that claimed the lives of eight individuals. The incident, which occurred on August 6, 2025, involved a military helicopter that crashed in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region, leaving the entire nation in grief and shock.
The crash, described by officials as one of the most devastating aviation accidents in recent military history, claimed the lives of several prominent figures, including two serving government ministers and other dedicated public servants. According to official reports, the victims were engaged in official duties when the aircraft encountered trouble, ultimately leading to the fatal accident.
On Friday, August 8, 2025, Justice Baffoe-Bonnie led a solemn delegation from the Judiciary to the Flagstaff House to pay their respects to the departed. The delegation participated in a symbolic wreath-laying ceremony, placing flowers in honour of the victims. The atmosphere was deeply emotional, with attendees observing a moment of silence to reflect on the lives lost and the service these individuals rendered to the nation.
Speaking to EASTERN FM 105.1 MHz after the ceremony, the Acting Chief Justice emphasised the importance of national unity during such challenging times. He cautioned against allowing political divisions to overshadow the grief and respect due to the victims.
“These gallant men died in the course of duty,” Justice Baffoe-Bonnie stated with visible emotion. “We must honour their memory by working together as one people, without letting political affiliations diminish the respect and gratitude we owe them. This is a moment for collective mourning, not partisan debate.”
He further encouraged Ghanaians to draw inspiration from the dedication and sacrifices of the deceased. “We should all have recourse to the legacy they left behind and commit ourselves to serving our nation with the same level of passion, diligence, and selflessness. Their deaths should not divide us, but rather, unite us in our shared responsibility to Ghana.”
The ceremony at the Flagstaff House was attended by various dignitaries, senior government officials, military personnel, and relatives of the victims. Messages of condolence have poured in from across the country, with many describing the crash as a painful reminder of the risks faced by those serving the nation in high offices and in uniform.
While investigations into the cause of the accident are ongoing, authorities have reassured the public that every effort is being made to uncover the truth and ensure such tragedies are prevented in the future. In the meantime, calls for unity, compassion, and respect for the memories of the departed continue to resonate nationwide.
STORY BY: KENNEDY AMPONSAH NTI
EASTERN FM 105.1 MHZ
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