Ato Forson, Armah-Kofi Buah to act as Defence, Environment Ministers

President John Dramani Mahama has made interim ministerial appointments in response to the tragic loss of two cabinet ministers in Wednesday’s military helicopter crash in the Ashanti Region.

In a statement issued by Presidential Spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the President directed the Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, to assume additional responsibility as Minister for Defence with immediate effect.

Similarly, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Kofi Armah Buah, has been appointed to act as Minister for Environment, Science and Technology until further notice.

The additional responsibilities come in the wake of the sudden passing of Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah and Environment Minister Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, who were among the eight people killed in the military helicopter crash on Wednesday, August 6, in the Adansi Akrofuom District.

The officials were en route to Obuasi for a government assignment when the incident occurred.

This move is aimed at ensuring continuity and stability in key sectors of national governance as the country mourns the loss of two distinguished public servants.

Flags are currently flying at half-mast nationwide, and a formal investigation into the cause of the crash has been launched by the Ghana Armed Forces and relevant state agencies.

President Mahama is expected to lead a state tribute to honour the deceased in the coming days as preparations for their official funerals commence.