The Member of Parliament for Akwatia, Ernest Yaw Kumi, has died after a short illness that kept him away from parliamentary duties for several days.
His passing has cast a shadow over Parliament, with Joy News' Parliamentary Affairs Correspondent Kweku Asante describing a somber mood in the House during today's sitting.
His death is a significant loss to both Parliament and the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
Mr. Kumi, a first-term MP elected on the NPP ticket, had recently been embroiled in a high-stakes legal battle challenging the legitimacy of his seat.
His death comes just weeks after the Supreme Court overturned a contempt conviction related to the disputed 2024 parliamentary election.
Back in February 2025, the Koforidua High Court had found him guilty of contempt for defying an interim injunction that barred him from presenting himself for swearing-in.
The court had issued a bench warrant for his arrest, citing his repeated absence from court and disregard for its authority.
His sudden demise brings an abrupt end to both his political career and ongoing legal battles.
