Hon. Cassiel Ato Forson and Hon. Emmanuel Kofi Buah to act as Defence and Environment , Science and Technology Ministers

By Joylinda Laryea / August 7, 2025

 In the wake of the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of several senior government officials, President John Dramani Mahama has announced interim ministerial appointments to ensure continuity in government operations.

The Minister for Finance, Hon. Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has been directed by the President to assume additional responsibilities as the Minister for Defence, effective immediately.

Simultaneously, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Kofi Armah Buah, has been appointed to act as the Minister for Environment, Science and Technology, following the demise of the previous officeholder in the crash.

The announcement was made on Thursday by the President’s spokesperson and Minister for Government Communications, Hon. Felix Kwakye Ofosu (MP).

“These acting appointments have become necessary following the tragic loss of the Ministers for Defence and Environment, Science and Technology in the helicopter crash on Wednesday, August 6, while en route to an official event in Obuasi,” the statement read.

The President extended his gratitude to the two ministers for accepting their new roles during this difficult period and urged all government institutions to offer them their full cooperation.

Meanwhile, national mourning continues across Ghana, as tributes pour in for the deceased officials, including Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, the late Minister for Defence, and Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, the late Minister for Environment, Science and Technology. The government has declared three days of national mourning, starting Thursday, August 7.

Further updates on funeral arrangements and permanent appointments are expected in due course.