For the eight of our compatriots who passed away while on a state assignment near Obuasi we wish for them God’s blessing in the spiritual world where their souls are now.
They served their nation to the best of their ability succumbing to death under circumstances beyond our ken.
To their families nuclear and extended, we pray to God to grant them the strength to contain the loss.
To the President of the Republic they were supposed to represent at the ill-fated state function we extend condolences to him too.
It was a function intended to support the ongoing war against the degradation of the environment as occasioned by illegal mining. We therefore ask that the efforts to thwart galamsey be ramped up to honour the memory of the fallen. This way their death would not be in vain.
It is not easy to lose loved ones especially under the circumstances surrounding the eight sons of Ghana.
The widows are passing through conditions they have never passed through before. When their children pose questions about the whereabouts of their loving fathers what will they tell them? May God grant them the wisdom to address such queries in a manner which will comfort the children.
Last Friday the nation bade a final adieu to them, a solemn occasion which reminded we the living that the world is but an empty dream.
Those who forget about the ephemeralness of the world are bound to get arrogant and even play God when they are but mere mortals not knowing when their Maker will withdraw the life which keeps them alive leaving their bodies lifeless in readiness for decomposition. This life!!
Some of the departed eight were friends to persons who at this time will occasionally recall the times they were together sharing experiences and the goodness of one another.
The foundation set up by the state to ensure that their children do not suffer from the absence of their fathers is a step in the right direction.
We salute the President for the deserving support and ask that the necessary oversight of the funds be ensured.
It is our hope that the children, besides the physical cushion the foundation will provide them will be given the necessary moral upbringing from all members of the family.
Let us not let the interment of the remains of the fallen eight be the end of our relationship with the widows and the children left behind. Occasional visits to the families will expedite the healing process which is needed at this time.
To die while serving the state is a great feat. Let us all learn to serve both country and humanity as best as we can. May the souls of the fallen eight rest in peace.
