Ernest Kumi, Member of Parliament for Akwatia, has died unexpectedly following a brief illness, delivering a major shock to both Parliament and the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP).
Though the exact cause of death has not been publicly disclosed, Joy News’ Parliamentary Affairs Correspondent, Kweku Asante, confirmed that Kumi had been active in Parliament as recently as the previous week.
Kumi’s passing leaves a significant void in the legislative chamber, where his contributions, though brief, were felt. A first-term MP elected on the ticket of the NPP, he had recently been thrust into national spotlight due to a contentious legal battle surrounding the legitimacy of his parliamentary seat.
Just weeks ago, the Supreme Court overturned a contempt conviction against Ernest Kumi that had stemmed from a dramatic chapter in Ghana’s post-election legal wrangling. In February 2025, the Koforidua High Court had found him guilty of contempt for defying an interim injunction that barred him from taking part in the swearing-in ceremony for new MPs.
The court had subsequently issued a bench warrant for his arrest, citing his repeated absence from hearings and what was described as blatant disregard for judicial authority.
Though he emerged from that episode legally vindicated by the highest court, Kumi’s political journey was abruptly cut short by his untimely death. His passing comes at a time when he appeared poised to move past legal uncertainty and fully serve his constituency. His absence will be deeply felt in both Parliament and the ranks of the NPP.
