GPA, PAG Call on Media to Exercise Sensitivity and Avoid Graphic Content in Helicopter Crash Coverage

The Ghana Psychological Association (GPA) and the Psychiatric Association of Ghana (PAG) have called on the media and the general public to exhibit sensitivity and restraint in their coverage and commentary following the tragic military helicopter crash that claimed the lives of several high-profile government officials.

In a joint statement issued on Thursday, August 7, the associations expressed deep sorrow over the incident, stressing the psychological toll such a national tragedy can have on families, institutions, and the broader Ghanaian society.

They warned that the circulation of graphic images or insensitive commentary could deepen the emotional trauma of those already affected.

“As mental health professionals, we recognise the far-reaching psychological impact such a loss can have on families, colleagues, institutions, and the wider Ghanaian society. In these moments of shared grief, we urge all individuals, especially staff of the affected ministries, friends, and the public, to seek psychological support if needed,” the statement read.

The tragic incident occurred on Wednesday, August 6, when a Ghana Armed Forces Z-9 helicopter carrying top state officials crashed in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region. The crash killed the Minister for Defence, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, and the Minister for Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation, Alhaji Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed.

Also confirmed dead were Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator; Samuel Aboagye, a former Parliamentary Candidate; and Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC). The helicopter’s three crew members, Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah, also lost their lives.

The victims’ bodies have been transported to the 37 Military Hospital in Accra. President John Dramani Mahama has since declared three days of national mourning beginning Thursday, August 7, to honour the deceased.

The Bureau of Public Safety (BPS) has separately called for an independent and transparent investigation into the cause of the crash, as questions mount over the incident that has plunged the nation into mourning.

Meanwhile, President John Dramani Mahama has made interim ministerial appointments in response to the tragic loss of two cabinet ministers.

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.