Member of Parliament for Gushegu, Hassan Tampuli, has called on President John Dramani Mahama to take decisive action in honour of the eight individuals who perished in the recent helicopter crash, describing such measures as the “best legacy” for the fallen heroes.
Speaking on Joy FM’s Newsfile on Saturday, Mr Tampuli outlined a three-point call to action, urging the President to move swiftly in addressing the underlying issues surrounding the tragedy and its wider implications.
“I think the best legacy that we can give to the memory of these fallen heroes, led by the President of the Republic, is, first of all, for the President to revoke LI 2462,” he said.
Tampuli criticised the policy as deeply problematic and incompatible with the nation’s environmental protection goals, especially in light of the recent helicopter tragedy that claimed the lives of eight public servants, many of whom were reportedly working on matters related to land and natural resources.
“There should be an immediate revocation of that LI, which effectively empowers two forces to engage in mining in protected areas,” he said.
Mr Tampuli stressed that the tragedy must serve as a turning point in the nation’s fight against illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, which has long posed a threat to Ghana’s environment and public safety.
“Look, there’s been so much talk about galamsey. We don’t need to even have any conversation about it again, everything that needs to be said has already been said,” he added.
As his second recommendation, the Gushegu MP called on the President to declare a state of emergency in light of the scale and implications of the crisis. “The President should declare a state of emergency as soon as possible,” he urged.
Mr Tampuli proposed a full parliamentary inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the crash, stating that only a transparent and thorough investigation could uncover the truth and prevent future occurrences.
“I think there should be a parliamentary inquiry to establish the cause of the crash and to make appropriate recommendations,” he said.
The Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, announced the tragic news on Wednesday, August 6, at a press conference and directed that all national flags be flown at half-mast in honour of the deceased.
He also extended the government’s condolences to the bereaved families and the nation.
The other deceased persons include Muniru Mohammed, acting Deputy National Security Coordinator; Samuel Aboagye, a former NDC Parliamentary Candidate for Obuasi East; and Samuel Sarpong, a Vice Chairman of the NDC and a former Kumasi Mayor.
The GAF has named the crew members as Squadron Leader Peter Baafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
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