By: Ashiadey Dotse
The Volta Regional Minister, James Gunu, has described the death of eight prominent Ghanaians in the recent helicopter crash as a painful and unbelievable loss.
Speaking at the Black Star Square during the final state funeral for the victims on Friday August 15, 2025, Mr. Gunu said it was “very difficult to believe” that the nation would no longer see the distinguished personalities who perished in the accident.
He recounted the moment he first heard about the tragedy, which he referred to as “Black Wednesday.” According to him, he was on a call with the Eastern Regional Minister, Mrs. Rita Akosua Awatey discussing security matters when she suddenly screamed after receiving the news of the crash and dropped the call. Moments later, reports began to emerge confirming the deaths of ministers and other respected figures.
Mr. Gunu paid glowing tribute to the Minister of Defence, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, highlighting their close working relationship during the 2024 elections. He praised Dr. Boamah for his innovative and analytical approach to electoral strategy, which he likened to a laboratory diagnosis that produced solutions leading to the NDC’s overwhelming victory.
He further recalled Dr. Boamah’s role as a resource person during a recent ministers’ orientation, describing him as “a gem the NDC has lost.”
The Minister also mourned other victims, including Dr. Ibrahim Muntala Mohammed and Dr. Samuel Sarpong, commending their service and dedication to the party and the nation.
Mr. Gunu appealed to Ghanaians to resist the temptation of politicizing the tragedy, urging unity in the face of national loss.
“This is not something we should politicize,” he stressed. “We need to come together as one nation. We pray for their souls and that our country never experiences such a tragedy again.”
