President John Dramani Mahama on Thursday unveiled a cenotaph in memory of the late Minister for Defence, Hon. Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, describing the fallen statesman as a devoted patriot, trusted confidant and loyal public servant whose legacy will continue to inspire generations of Ghanaians.
Speaking during the solemn ceremony, President Mahama said the occasion was not only to unveil a monument but also to reaffirm the nation’s gratitude to a man who dedicated his life to the service of Ghana.
“Today we gather not only to unveil a cenotaph, but to reaffirm our nation’s gratitude to a devoted patriot whose life was dedicated to the service of Ghana,” the President said.
He explained that the cenotaph symbolises far more than a memorial structure.
“A cenotaph is more than stone and inscriptions. It is a lasting reminder that while life may end, the values it embodied service, integrity, patriotism and sacrifice must continue to inspire future generations,” he stated.
President Mahama praised Dr. Omane Boamah’s distinguished tenure as Minister for Defence, noting that his dedication, humility and unwavering commitment significantly strengthened Ghana’s security architecture and democratic governance.
“Dr. Omane Boamah served with diligence, humility and unwavering commitment to the security and stability of our Republic.
His contribution to strengthening our Armed Forces and advancing Ghana’s democratic governance will remain part of our national story,” he said.
In an emotional tribute, President Mahama described the late Defence Minister as more than a colleague, recalling the close personal bond they shared over many years.
“For me, this immortalization of Omane’s memory is deeply personal. He was a friend, a younger brother, a loyalist and a close advisor. His loyalty and love for me was undoubted,” the President said.
“He stood by my side through all momentous occasions of my political career. Omane was a great human being. His kind is difficult to find in our world today,” he added.
President Mahama commended the Ghana Armed Forces for honouring their former Minister, describing him as the only Defence Minister in the country’s history to have died while serving in office.
“I thank the Ghana Armed Forces for the honour being done to your former Minister today the only Defence Minister on record to have died in active service,” he said.
The President also expressed appreciation to the President of Burkina Faso, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, for demonstrating solidarity with Ghana by dispatching a special envoy to the memorial ceremony.
“I thank my brother, the President of Burkina Faso, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, for sending a special envoy in the person of his Minister for Warfare and Patriotic Defence, General Celestine Sempore, to represent him at this moment of our grief,” he noted.
On behalf of the Government and people of Ghana, President Mahama extended his deepest condolences to the family, friends and former colleagues of the late Dr. Omane Boamah.
“May they find comfort in the knowledge that his service to Ghana shall never be forgotten,” he said.
He concluded with a prayer for the eternal repose of the late Defence Minister and God’s continued blessings upon Ghana.
“May his soul continue to rest in perfect peace, and may God continue to bless our beloved homeland, Ghana.”
Story: Patrick Asford Boadu
