The Member of Parliament for Akwatia, Ernest Kumi, has passed away after a brief illness that kept him away from parliamentary duties in recent days.
News of his death has cast a shadow over proceedings in Parliament, with a visibly somber mood reported during today’s sitting. Joy News’ Parliamentary Affairs Correspondent, Kweku Asante, described the atmosphere as one of shock and grief, as colleagues mourned the loss of the first-term legislator.
Mr. Kumi, who entered Parliament on the ticket of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), had recently been embroiled in a high-profile legal dispute concerning the legitimacy of his election in the 2024 parliamentary polls.
His sudden death comes just weeks after the Supreme Court overturned a contempt conviction against him in connection with the disputed election results.
In February 2025, the Koforidua High Court found him guilty of contempt for defying an interim injunction that barred him from participating in the swearing-in of MPs. A bench warrant was subsequently issued for his arrest after he failed to appear before the court.
Despite these legal challenges, Mr. Kumi had remained active in parliamentary affairs until his recent illness. His passing is considered a significant loss to both Parliament and the NPP.
Further details regarding funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days.
Source: www.kumasimail.com