The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has appealed to Ghana’s political leaders to rise above party lines in discussions surrounding the procurement of aircraft for the presidency and the military.
His call follows the tragic helicopter crash at Adansi Akrofuom in the Ashanti Region on August 6, 2025, which claimed the lives of all eight people on board.
Among the victims were two Cabinet Ministers, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Minister of Defence, and Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Minister for Environment, Science and Technology Innovation.
Speaking at the Manhyia Palace during a visit by Ashanti Regional Minister Dr. Frank Amoakohene, the Asantehene described the incident as a national tragedy that demands a serious response.
He expressed condolences to President Mahama and the grieving families, noting that the safety of Ghana’s leaders and military personnel must be treated as a top priority.
“Enough of the politicising of the purchase of presidential planes and helicopters. Human lives are at stake here. We must invest to safeguard their safety and efficiency,” Otumfuo said.
He added that much of Ghana’s current military fleet is outdated and unfit for service. According to him, replacing these aircraft with reliable alternatives is not a luxury but a necessity for national security.
Otumfuo urged political leaders from all sides to approach the issue with unity and purpose, stressing that aviation safety should never become a partisan argument.
The helicopter crash victims included senior government officials and military personnel who, as Otumfuo noted, served the nation with dedication.
Two were buried on August 10, while the remaining six will be laid to rest on August 15.
The Manhyia Palace continues to support efforts to honour their memory and prevent future tragedies.
