The Akwatia Constituency in Ghana’s Eastern Region has been plunged into grief following the sudden and tragic passing of its Member of Parliament, Ernest Kumi.

News of his death, which broke on Monday, July 7, 2025, has left constituents and members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) reeling in disbelief.

Mr. Kumi, a dynamic first-time MP, was widely regarded as one of the NPP’s most promising young voices.

His last known public appearance came just days before his passing, on Friday, July 4, when he featured as a panelist on Adom TV’s flagship political programme, Badwam.

On the show, he passionately opposed the Electoral Commission’s suggestion to hold a re-run in 19 polling stations within the Ablekuma North constituency — a debate that now stands as his final political engagement.

As of now, the cause of death remains unconfirmed, and no official statements have been issued by Parliament or the leadership of the New Patriotic Party.

Funeral arrangements are also yet to be announced.

Mr. Kumi’s political journey was marked by resilience and a fierce commitment to public service.

He rose to national prominence after securing victory in one of the most hotly contested parliamentary races of the 2024 general elections — a race that saw Akwatia once again become a focal point of electoral tension between the NPP and the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).

Akwatia, a swing constituency with a history of alternating political loyalties, became a symbolic stronghold for the NPP under Kumi’s leadership.

His win was seen not only as a personal triumph but as a broader testament to the NPP’s grassroots support in the region.

Now, just months into his first term, the young MP’s unexpected death has left a vacuum in local leadership and cast a somber shadow over the political landscape.

In Akwatia and beyond, tributes continue to pour in — from colleagues, political rivals, constituents, and Ghanaians who admired his passion and potential.

As the nation awaits further details and official confirmation, many are left mourning a life and career cut far too short.

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