Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG) flagbearer Kofi Akpaloo has come under fire following comments he made in reaction to the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight individuals, including two sitting government ministers.
In a statement that has sparked widespread criticism, Akpaloo questioned the national response to the tragedy:
“Why are Ghanaians behaving as if this tragedy is unprecedented? Even children die, so if these old men have died, what is the issue?”
The remarks, perceived by many as insensitive and dismissive, were made in reference to the August 6 crash in Adansi Akrofuom, which killed Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence; Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Minister for Environment, Science and Technology; and six others, including three military officers and senior political figures.
Akpaloo’s comments stand in stark contrast to the national mood of grief and mourning, with many public figures, institutions, and foreign bodies, including ECOWAS and the CEO Network of Ghana, offering heartfelt condolences and calling for unity.
Social media platforms have since erupted with condemnation, with some users accusing the LPG leader of political insensitivity and a lack of empathy during a time of national sorrow.
As of now, Akpaloo has not issued any clarification or apology regarding his remarks. Meanwhile, national mourning continues, with flags flying at half-mast and investigations ongoing to determine the cause of the fatal crash.
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