The Member of Parliament for Akwatia, Ernest Kumi, has died after a short illness, in a development that has shocked Parliament and the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP).
Mr Kumi, who entered Parliament on the NPP ticket, had been a central figure in a prolonged legal battle over his seat following the disputed 2024 parliamentary elections. His sudden death comes just weeks after the Supreme Court overturned a contempt conviction handed down by the Koforidua High Court earlier this year.
In February 2025, the court found Mr Kumi guilty of contempt after he defied an interim injunction preventing him from participating in the swearing-in ceremony as MP. A bench warrant was later issued for his arrest due to his repeated absence from court and what the judge described as “blatant disregard” for judicial orders.
Despite the controversy, Kumi maintained a visible presence in Parliament and was seen engaging in committee work and floor debates. Colleagues from both sides of the House described him as intelligent, passionate, and deeply committed to his constituency.
Kumi’s passing is another emotional blow to Ghana’s political establishment and raises questions about a possible by-election in Akwatia, a historically contested seat in the Eastern Region.
For now, the focus remains on mourning a life that, though politically brief, left a strong imprint on Ghana’s legislative landscape.
