The visit followed Mr. Mahama’s attendance at the funeral rites of the late Asantehemaa, Nana Ama Konadu Yiadom III, at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi.

He was accompanied by his Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, Ashanti Regional Minister Frank Amoakohene, and other members of his entourage.

Dr. Sarpong was among eight people who lost their lives when a military helicopter crashed, a tragedy that sent shockwaves across the country. His sudden passing has left a void not only within the NDC but also among colleagues and loved ones who admired his dedication and service.

Consoling the bereaved family, President Mahama described Dr. Sarpong as a committed party stalwart and a selfless leader who worked tirelessly to advance the ideals of the NDC. He further assured them of the party’s continuous support during this difficult time.

The circumstances surrounding the crash remain under investigation as the nation continues to mourn the loss of prominent figures who perished in the accident.

Job 14:1-2 – “Man that is born of a woman is of few days,  and full of trouble. He cometh forth like a flower and is cut down; he fleeth also as a shadow and continueth not.” 

Dr. Samuel Sarpong, affectionately known as Sammy Tugar and Castro, was born on 7th November 1957 at Adadientem to Mr. Kwabena Mensah Sarpong (of blessed memory) and Mrs. Agnes Boakye Sarpong.

From humble beginnings, he rose to become a distinguished public servant, politician, and community leader whose life was marked by service, courage, and resilience. 

His early education took him through Adadientem, Besease R/C, Sefwi Wiawso, and finally Esease Middle School, where he completed his basic schooling.

He proceeded to Osei Tutu Secondary School, then to Wesley College, where he trained as a teacher.

He was a cross-country runner and a high jumper. Upon completion, he taught at Juaben Secondary School from 1981 to 1982 as a physical education (P.E.) and Asante Twi teacher.

Dr. Sarpong’s leadership qualities quickly became evident, earning him the role of PDC Coordinator for the Ejisu/Juaben District. He coordinated the Programme of Action to Mitigate the Social Costs of Adjustment (PAMSCAD).

His pursuit of higher learning and specialized knowledge led him abroad—first to Cuba, where he studied criminology, and later to Bulgaria for further studies. 

His professional career was diverse and impactful. He served with the Special Branch (now BNI), the Ashanti Regional Investigation Committee (ASHRIC), which later became the Serious Fraud Office (SFO), and subsequently the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO).

He also served as Acting Director of SFO for the Northern Sector, covering the Ashanti, Bono Ahafo, Northern, Upper East, and Upper West regions.

In politics, Dr. Sarpong held numerous leadership roles, including Mayor of Kumasi (2009), Ashanti Regional Minister (2013), Central Regional Minister, and Parliamentary Candidate for Nyiaeso (NDC) in 2016.

He also served as Director of the State Housing Corporation. In addition, he later obtained an Executive Master’s Degree from GIMPA. 

He is the Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC). His commitment to party development was evident in his instrumental role in  building the NDC Party Office at Nyiaeso.

He treated people equally irrespective of their color, creed, or political affiliation. He was a founding member of the NDC.

A respected traditional leader, Dr. Sarpong was enstooled asNkosohene of Cape Coast. He
was married to Mrs. Hannah Sarpong, and together they were blessed with five children;
four boys and one girl.

On that fateful day, Dr. Sarpong’s life of service and dedication was cut short when he became one of the eight gallant individuals who perished in a tragic helicopter
crash at Sikaman-Brofoyedu in the Ashanti Region.

Dr. Samuel Sarpong’s legacy is one of selfless leadership. unwavering patriotism,
and a deep love for family, community, and country.

His contributions will continue to inspire generations to come.
Damirifa Due! Due ne Amanehunu!

ALSO READ:

• Children of late Samuel Sarpong deliver farewell tribute at state funeral

• I am still looking forward to welcoming you back home – Wife of late…

According to him, it is not proper for any NDC member to score political points from the galamsey fight.

Mr. Sarpong pledged the party’s commitment to investigate the matter and sanction Mr Boahen if he is found guilty.

“I have not listened to what exactly he said, I will confirm that from Sammy Gyamfi. I condemn such a statement from Kwaku Boahen because our flagbearer is seriously against galamsey and would never want to score political points out of that.

“I will contact Sammy Gyamfi who is the National Communications Officer to investigate the matter and we will deal with him if he really supported galamsey,” he said.

Speaking to Nana Jantuah on Nhyira FM’s Kroyimunsem show, Dr. Samuel Sarpong attributed the difficulty in fighting illegal mining to leadership failure.

The former Minister believes President Akufo-Addo supervised the passage of a bill which allowed miners into the country’s forest reserves which has cost the nation valuable trees and other resources.

“It is Nana Addo who allowed galamsey in our forest reserves by introducing a bill that he knows will destroy our forest. Some trees which are over 50 years old have all been destroyed. If we want to blame someone, it should be the president who has all the powers as a leader of the country,” he stated.

Dr. Sarpong believes the National Democratic Congress fought galamsey better than any other government. He indicated that former presidents Mills and Mahama fought to the extent of repatriating Chinese illegal miners.

“President Mills started the fight very well and even under former president Mahama we deported several Chinese galamseyers. This track record shows that we are better in the fight,” he said.

ALSO READ:

• Catholic Archdiocese of Accra’s prayer walk against galamsey [ Photos]

• Galamsey: Sehwi Atronsu residents threaten to burn excavators