EC mourns Omane Boamah, 7 others killed in helicopter crash

The Electoral Commission of Ghana (EC) has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Defence Minister Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah and seven other citizens in the August 6, 2025, military helicopter crash in the Ashanti Region.

Dr. Omane Boamah, who was also a long-serving member of the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC), perished alongside senior government officials, military officers, and other dignitaries when a Z-9 helicopter went down in the Dampia Range Forest Reserve in the Adansi Akrofuom District.

The ill-fated aircraft was reportedly on an anti-illegal mining operation from Accra to Obuasi.

In a statement issued on Friday, August 8, EC Chairperson Jean Mensa described the news of the tragedy as “shocking and dismaying,” noting that Dr. Omane Boamah was “an active and dedicated member of the IPAC” whose “vocal contributions” significantly shaped the electoral dialogue.

She added that his commitment to strengthening democratic and electoral processes had earned him the respect of political stakeholders across the divide.

“The absence of Dr. Omane Boamah at our meetings will be deeply felt,” the statement read, as the Commission extended its condolences to President John Dramani Mahama, the Government, bereaved families, and the people of Ghana.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this difficult time,” it added.

The helicopter crash claimed the lives of prominent figures, including Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Muniru Limuna Mohammed, NDC Vice Chairman Dr. Samuel Sarpong, former MP Samuel Aboagye, Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.

The EC’s tribute adds to the growing chorus of voices calling for the legacies of the victims — particularly their dedication to public service — as the nation mourns their passing.