Former President Akufo-Addo has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the Member of Parliament for Akwatia, Ernest Kumi, describing the news as a devastating blow to the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and to Ghana’s Parliament.
Paying tribute to Kumi in a Facebook post, Akufo-Addo described Ernest Kumi as a beloved and admired figure within the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and a passionate advocate for the people of Akwatia.
He said “The legislator was adored and loved by party faithful and cherished by all who knew or shared acquaintances with him.”
Nana Addo extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, the people of Akwatia, and the leadership of the NPP. He also called on Ghanaians to remember the late MP for his dedication to public service and his unwavering belief in the potential of Ghana’s democracy.
Former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia also described the late MP as a "loyal patriot" and extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family.
“I have received with sadness the passing of Hon. Ernest Yaw Kumi, MP Akwatia Constituency. Ernest was a loyal patriot. My condolences to the immediate family. May his soul rest in peace,” Dr Bawumia wrote.
Kumi died on Monday, July 7, 2025 after a short illness.
Mr. Kumi was serving his first term in Parliament, having won the December 7, 2024 election.
He secured the seat for the NPP in a closely contested race marked by allegations of vote buying, irregularities at some polling stations, and heightened political tension in the lead-up to the polls.
Before his death, he was facing a legal action after he disobeyed an interim injunction issued on January 7, which barred him from being sworn in as the Member of Parliament-elect for Akwatia due to an ongoing legal contest over his election.
The injunction was the result of a lawsuit filed by National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate and former Akwatia MP, Henry Boakye-Yiadom, contesting the legitimacy of the election results.
Despite the injunction, Kumi presented himself in Parliament to be sworn in on January 7, 2025.
In February 2025, the Koforidua High Court convicted him for contempt of court, but the ruling was overturned by the Supreme Court in June 2025.
The apex court also nullified the execution of a bench warrant that had been issued against the late legislator.