President Mahama Suspends Activities; Declares Three Days of National Mourning

By Joylinda Laryea / August 6, 2025

President John Dramani Mahama has suspended all official engagements and activities for the remainder of the week following Wednesday’s tragic helicopter crash that claimed eight lives.

A statement issued by the Presidency and signed by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Spokesperson to the President and Minister for Government Communications, described the event as a “national tragedy” and confirmed that three days of national mourning will begin on Thursday, August 7, 2025.

As part of the mourning period, the government has directed that all national flags be flown at half-mast until further notice. The directive, conveyed through the Chief of Staff, is expected to be observed nationwide.

The helicopter crash, which occurred earlier in the day, resulted in the deaths of senior government officials, military officers, and party executives. Their identities were announced in a separate government statement.

President Mahama is expected to visit the families of the deceased and oversee arrangements for a state burial in the coming days.

The accident has sent shockwaves across the nation, with condolences pouring in from political leaders, civil society, and international partners.