Jackson K Bentum Criticises NPP Over Demonstration Timing on Helicopter Crash Anniversary

• Kumawood producer Jackson K Bentum publicly questioned the NPP's decision to hold a demonstration on a day of national mourning
• The NPP protest coincided with Ghana's first anniversary commemoration of the helicopter crash that killed eight people
• Bentum called on political leaders across party lines to prioritise national unity during moments of collective grief

Kumawood movie producer Jackson K Bentum has expressed his disappointment over the decision by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to hold a demonstration on the same day Ghana was commemorating the first anniversary of the helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight people.

In a statement shared publicly, Jackson K Bentum acknowledged that peaceful demonstrations are a constitutional right and stressed that no one should deny citizens or political groups their freedom to protest.

Bentum questions timing of NPP demonstration

However, he argued that the timing of the NPP’s demonstration could have been reconsidered due to the emotional significance of the day.

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According to him, the nation was supposed to be focused on mourning and honouring the memory of the eight individuals who lost their lives while serving Ghana in efforts connected to the fight against illegal mining.

“Yesterday was a day for the nation to mourn and honour the eight people who tragically lost their lives while serving Ghana,” he stated, adding that the occasion required unity and collective remembrance.

Jackson K Bentum noted that postponing the demonstration until after the national mourning activities would have demonstrated a stronger sense of togetherness and respect for the victims, their families, and the country as a whole.

Bentum calls for unity over political differences

He further called on political leaders, both in government and opposition, to prioritise Ghana’s interest above political differences, especially during moments of national tragedy.

The Kumawood producer said occasions involving national loss should serve as a reminder for leaders and citizens to unite rather than create further divisions.

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“Moments of national tragedy should bring us together, not divide us,” he wrote.

Adding that joining the country to honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice would have sent a powerful message of solidarity.

Jackson K Bentum ended his message by extending his condolences and praying for the peaceful rest of the departed souls, while urging Ghanaians to always put the nation’s interest ahead of political considerations.

His comments have since generated discussions among social media users, with some agreeing with his call for national unity while others continue to debate the timing of political activities during significant national events.

The Facebook post of Jackson K Bentum is below.

Helicopter crash victim Ernest's mother mourns

Earlier, YEN.com.gh reported that the mother of Ghana Air Force personnel Ernest Mensah marked one year since he died in the August 2025 helicopter crash.

She shared an emotional tribute on social media, describing the past year as filled with pain and confusion.

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Ernest Mensah was one of eight people who died when the Ghana Air Force helicopter crashed on August 6, 2025.

Source: YEN.com.gh