The People’s National Party (PNP) has extended its deepest condolences to the families of the gallant men who recently lost their lives in service to the beloved country in an air crash that claimed eight lives.
Among the bereaved are children, spouses, and elderly mothers, including the mother of the Minister for Defence, who was her only child.
In a statement released and signed by Chairperson and Leader, Janet Asana Nabla, the PNP expressed its awareness of the President’s intention to create a fund for the children of the deceased. While this initiative is undoubtedly well-meaning, the PNP argues that it is inadequate and unsustainable.
The statement cautioned that a fund can be depleted, discontinued, or politicised, risking becoming a mere token gesture that fades over time. The PNP firmly rejects the notion of a temporary fund as the sole measure of support.
Instead, they are advocating for the urgent passage of the National Heroes Dependants Protection Act, a permanent, state-backed welfare system enshrined in law, funded through the Consolidated Fund, and administered by the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection.
The statement outlined four key guidelines affirming that the proposed legislation must:
“Provide a monthly salary-style stipend to the widows to cater for the children and, in some cases, the parents of the deceased who have no other children, regardless of which party forms the government.
“Guarantee that such benefits are not politicised and remain consistent regardless of which party forms the government.
“Ensure that the children of the deceased are supported through their education, and upon completion of tertiary studies, are given priority employment opportunities within the public sector.
“Ensure full transparency and accountability so the system is never misused as a conduit for siphoning money from the state purse.”
The PNP emphasised that this is not charity; it is a solemn duty. Those who gave their lives in service to Ghana paid the ultimate price.
However, the party concluded that their families must not be left vulnerable to the changing winds of politics or the waning of public sympathy.
“A strong, permanent legislative framework is the only way to ensure that the debt we owe them is honoured not for a few years, but for generations to come,” the statement asserted.
