The Chief Director of the Ministry broke the news to staff, prompting emotional scenes and a solemn atmosphere within and outside the premises.
The tragedy claimed eight lives, including Dr Edward Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence.
Other victims included Alhaji Mohammed Muniru Limuna, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator and former Minister for Food and Agriculture; Dr Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and former Ashanti Regional Minister; Mr Samuel Aboagye, a former NDC parliamentary candidate for Obuasi East.
The rest were Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala; Flying Officer Malin Twum-Ampadu; and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
The deceased were attending an anti-illegal mining event, known as the Responsible Co-operative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP), in Obuasi.
At the NDC National Headquarters, supporters gathered in sorrow, many visibly distressed. As of 1640 hours Wednesday, no party officials were present at the premises.
Across Accra, flags flew at half-mast as citizens mourned the national tragedy.
“This is very painful… it is indeed a black Wednesday and we are all mourning,” said Ama Serwaa, a trader.
Mr Julius Debrah, Chief of Staff at the Presidency, announced the incident, which occurred Wednesday morning in the Adansi area of the Ashanti Region.
He said President John Dramani Mahama and the Government extended condolences to the families of the deceased.
“All flags are to fly at half-mast until further notice,” he stated.
GNA
