BY Daniel Bampoe
In a rare show of political unity, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has reached out to its main rival, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), with a message of condolence and an unreserved apology over inflammatory comments made by some individuals in the aftermath of the August 6 Ghana Air Force helicopter crash.
The tragic incident, which claimed eight lives – including two cabinet ministers – has been described as one of the nation’s darkest moments in recent memory.
The crash sparked an outpouring of grief across political divides, but it also gave rise to pockets of divisive and accusatory rhetoric, drawing public criticism.
A Gesture Of Solidarity
Led by NPP General Secretary Justin Kodua Frimpong, the delegation – which included the party’s 3rd Vice Chairman – visited the NDC headquarters in Accra to convey their condolences.
They were warmly received by NDC National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketiah and Deputy Communications Officer Godwin Arko Gunn.
Kodua stressed that moments of tragedy require leaders to rise above partisan politics and foster solidarity.
He acknowledged that some remarks made by individuals – including politically aligned supporters and even MPs – were inappropriate, unhelpful, and damaging to the spirit of unity needed during national crises.
“In times like this, we must all feel solidarity. There are certain comments made by people, sometimes not even close to leadership, that must be condemned. As leaders, we must distance ourselves from such remarks,”.Justin Kodua said.
Apology Over Offensive Remarks
Kodua expressed particular concern about statements that sought to politicise the tragedy, including unfounded accusations linking the NPP to the crash and shocking suggestions that other individuals should have been among the deceased.
“Death is something you should not wish even for your enemies,” he said, offering an apology on behalf of the NPP to the NDC and President John Dramani Mahama.
“Such behaviour does not reflect the position of the New Patriotic Party, and we will never condone it.”
Political History of Sharp Rhetoric
The political space has often been marked by heated exchanges between the NPP and NDC, with tragedies sometimes becoming flashpoints for partisan blame games.
In past incidents, public tragedies have been overshadowed by politically charged accusations, eroding public trust in the political class’s ability to unite in times of grief.
Against this backdrop, the NPP’s decision to openly apologise and condemn insensitive remarks stands out as a departure from entrenched patterns of political hostility.
NDC’s Response
The NDC leadership welcomed the NPP’s condolence visit and apology, describing the meeting as cordial and constructive.
Both parties agreed on the need to set an example for supporters by discouraging inflammatory language during national emergencies.
Kodua reaffirmed the NPP’s readiness to maintain peaceful relations with the NDC, even in the midst of fierce political competition. “Our humanity must come before our political differences,” he said.
