Ghana Mourns Akwatia MP Ernest Yaw Kumi After Sudden Passing at 40

Tributes flooded Ghana’s political sphere following the July 7 death of Akwatia MP Ernest Yaw Kumi, 40, after a brief illness.

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) legislator succumbed to chest pains despite emergency efforts at a private hospital, his brother Edmund Apoh told 3News. “He was our family’s pillar and only hope,” Apoh stated, confirming Kumi fell ill upon returning from travel.

Former President Nana Akufo-Addo expressed devastation on social media, calling Kumi “adored by party faithful” and extending sympathies to his family and constituents: “May he rest peacefully until the Resurrection.” Colleagues shared emotional reflections, with Akuapim North MP Samuel Awuku recalling their final conversation days prior: “You sounded full of life… Now I turn to an empty seat behind me.”

New Juaben South MP Michael Okyere Baafi described Kumi’s death as a “national loss,” praising his “tireless commitment to justice.” Ofoase Ayirebi MP Kojo Oppong Nkrumah highlighted the MP’s resilience: “Always with a smile no matter the pressure… A young man with so much promise.”

Kumi, affectionately known as “Akwatia Star Boy,” served in Ghana’s 8th Parliament. Parliament observed a moment of silence as colleagues pledged to honor his legacy of service.