Mahama Appoints Ato Forson as Acting Defence Minister, Kofi Buah to Head Environment Ministry Temporarily

In the wake of a tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of two cabinet ministers, President John Dramani Mahama has swiftly appointed interim replacements to maintain government continuity.

According to a statement released by the Presidency Communications Directorate on Thursday, August 7, 2025, Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has been directed to assume additional responsibilities as Acting Minister for Defence. Likewise, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Kofi Armah Buah, has been tasked to act as Minister for Environment, Science and Technology.

The appointments come as the nation mourns the untimely demise of the substantive Ministers for Defence and Environment, Science and Technology, who perished in a fatal helicopter crash on Wednesday while en route to a government event in Obuasi.

The statement, signed by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, MP and Spokesperson to the President, emphasizes that these interim appointments are to remain in effect until further notice.

The Presidency has expressed its deepest condolences to the families of the deceased and the entire nation as it grieves this profound loss.