National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, says the party and government would have reversed the tragic August 6 helicopter crash, if it were within their power.
Speaking at the final funeral rites of the acting national deputy security coordinator, Alhaji Mohammed Muniru Limuna, one of eight victims of the crash, Mr Asiedu Nketiah described the incident as a painful national tragedy that no one could have prevented.
“If there were anything that the NDC, both in party and in government, could do to reverse this tragedy, it could have been done,” he stated. “But unfortunately, nothing we do can bring back Honourable Limuna.”
He noted the widespread sorrow across the political and national spectrum, and emphasised the importance of shifting focus to the families left behind. Mr. Asiedu Nketiah reiterated that President John Mahama had directed the creation of a fund to support the dependents of all those who died in the crash.
“What we must concentrate on is to make sure the family he left behind is catered for… That is why His Excellency the President directed the establishment of a fund to take care of the families of the victims of the August 6 disaster,” he added.
He further called for unity, urging that the solidarity witnessed at the funeral should continue. He said the gathering should mark a turning point in northern unity and national cooperation.
The August 6 crash, which occurred in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region, claimed the lives of top government officials, including Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Environment Minister, Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, NDC Vice Chairman, Samuel Sarpong, former parliamentary candidate, Samuel Aboagye, and three military officers who were operating the aircraft.
The final funeral rites for Limuna, who was also the traditional ruler Sandape-Wura Buwulonso I, drew thousands of mourners, including chiefs, government officials, political leaders, and diplomats, to Damongo on Sunday.
Source: Abigail Arthur