The Parliament of Ghana has adjourned today’s sitting to Tuesday, July 8, following the sudden passing of the Member of Parliament for Akwatia, Ernest Yaw Kumi.
The First Deputy Speaker, Hon. Bernard Ahiafor, suspended the proceedings after a request from the Majority Leader, Hon. Alexander Afenyo-Markin, was granted out of respect for the late legislator.
The Minority Leader, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, officially broke the news on the floor of the House, expressing profound sorrow.
“Mr. Speaker, this is very sad. I break this unfortunate news with great regret and hesitation, but it is my duty to do so,” he said solemnly.
Hon. Ernest Yaw Kumi, a first-time MP elected on the ticket of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), passed away at the age of 41. His death comes just weeks after a significant legal battle concerning his parliamentary legitimacy was resolved.
Earlier this year, the Koforidua High Court had convicted Mr. Kumi of contempt after he defied an interim injunction that barred him from presenting himself for swearing-in as an MP in January 2025. The court also issued a bench warrant for his arrest, citing his failure to appear before the court and his disregard for its authority.
However, the Supreme Court later overturned the contempt conviction, ruling in favour of Mr. Kumi’s judicial review application. In addition, the apex court barred Justice Emmanuel Senyo Amedahe of the Koforidua High Court from proceeding to sentence the MP, effectively clearing the way for him to resume his parliamentary duties.
The Majority and Minority Leaders have both praised Mr. Kumi for his dedication, intellect, and youthful energy, describing his passing as a major loss to Ghana’s democracy and Parliament.