The Presidency has announced the appointment of two interim cabinet ministers following the tragic deaths of the substantive Ministers for Defence and Environment, Science and Technology in a fatal helicopter crash on Wednesday, August 6.
President John Dramani Mahama has directed the Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, to assume additional responsibilities as acting Minister for Defence. In a parallel appointment, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Kofi Armah Buah, has been tasked to serve as acting Minister for Environment, Science and Technology until further notice.
The appointments follow what has been described as a devastating national tragedy in which two serving ministers lost their lives while travelling to an official event in Obuasi. The helicopter carrying them reportedly crashed under undisclosed circumstances, with investigations currently underway.
In a statement issued by the Minister for Government Communications and Presidential Spokesperson, Hon. Felix Kwakye Ofosu, President Mahama extended his condolences to the bereaved families and reassured the public of the government’s resolve to ensure stability during the mourning period.
“These temporary appointments are to ensure there is no vacuum in critical areas of national security and environmental policy,” the statement read.
“The President has full confidence in the capacity and experience of both ministers to steer their respective additional portfolios during this difficult time.”
National mourning activities are ongoing, with flags flying at half-mast across the country in honour of the departed ministers.
