The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has called on the political leaders of Ghana to desist from engaging in partisanship over discussions around the purchase of a new presidential jet and military helicopters.

According to a report by asaaseradio.com, Otumfuo stressed the need to prioritise safety and operational efficiency. He made the statement when the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr Frank Amoakohene, paid a courtesy call on him at the Manhyia Palace on Wednesday, August 13, 2025.

“Enough of the politicisation of the purchase of presidential planes and helicopters. Human lives are at stake here. We must invest to safeguard their safety and efficiency,” the report quoted opemsuo.com.

Otumfuo called for urgent investment in a modern replacement for the country’s existing fleet, noting that its current condition is not optimal.

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The Asantehene was speaking in the wake of the August 6, 2025, fatal helicopter crash, which claimed the lives of eight individuals, including two cabinet ministers, and has since reignited a conversation about the existing fleet of helicopters and jets belonging to the Ghana Armed Forces.

On August 6, 2025, a Ghana Air Force Harbin Z-9 military helicopter crashed into a forested mountainside in the Adansi Akrofuom District, Ashanti Region, Ghana, killing all eight people on board. The helicopter was en route from Kotoka International Airport in Accra to Obuasi for an event focused on combating illegal mining.

Among the victims were Ghana’s Defence Minister Edward Omane Boamah, Environment Minister Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress Samuel Sarpong, former parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye, and three crew members: Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.

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The wreckage was found burned, with all victims burnt beyond recognition, necessitating DNA analysis for identification.

GA/BAI

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