The political landscape of Ghana was shaken on Monday, July 7, 2025, by the sudden death of Ernest Yaw Kumi, Member of Parliament for Akwatia, who passed away at age 41 following a brief illness. His untimely demise has sparked an outpouring of grief across party lines, with tributes flooding in from Parliament, constituents, and national leaders.

🕊️ A Promising Career Cut Short

Kumi, a first-time MP representing the New Patriotic Party (NPP), won the Akwatia seat in the 2024 general elections, defeating NDC candidate Henry Yiadom Boakye with 19,269 votes to 17,2063. His victory, however, was marred by legal disputes, including an interim injunction and a contempt conviction issued by the Koforidua High Court in February 20255. The Supreme Court later overturned the conviction in June, citing judicial bias and procedural irregularities.

Despite these challenges, Kumi quickly earned respect in Parliament, serving on the Lands and Natural Resources Committee and the House Committee. His last public statement, delivered in February, called for proactive disaster management strategies by NADMO5.

🏛️ Tributes from Parliament and Beyond

Parliament suspended its proceedings to mourn Kumi’s passing, with Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin describing him as “a young politician full of promise”. Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga echoed the sentiment, calling his death “a loss to Akwatia and Ghana as a whole.”

Former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, visibly shaken during a condolence visit, said, “Nobody in Parliament supported me more than he did... I still can’t believe he’s gone”. Former President Akufo-Addo also paid tribute, calling Kumi “a beloved and admired figure”.

💔 Final Moments and Family Grief

According to family accounts, Kumi had returned from a trip and complained of chest pains before being rushed to Lister Hospital, where he passed away. His wife recounted their final conversation, saying he told her, “I would be taking a nap,” shortly before his death.

Kumi is survived by his wife and three children, aged 13, 10, and 7. A book of condolence has been opened at his residence in Tema, where mourners continue to gather.

🎓 Academic and Personal Legacy

Beyond politics, Kumi held multiple degrees, including:

• MSc in Defence and International Politics (GAFCSC, 2022)

• MBA in Corporate Governance (UPSA, 2014)

• LLB (Mountcrest University College, 2019)

• BSc in Ports and Shipping Administration (Regional Maritime University, 2009)

He was affectionately known as the “Akwatia Star Boy”, admired for his humility, charisma, and commitment to development.

📌 What Comes Next

Kumi’s death leaves a vacancy in Parliament, likely triggering a by-election in the politically sensitive Akwatia constituency. As the nation mourns, questions linger about the pressures of public office and the toll it takes on young leaders.

For now, Ghana remembers Ernest Kumi not for the controversies that shadowed his rise but for the promise he carried and the legacy he leaves behind.