Ghana’s Parliament was plunged into grief on Monday, 7 July 2025, following the unexpected death of Ernest Yaw Kumi, the Member of Parliament for Akwatia.

The tragic news sent shockwaves through the chamber, prompting an emotional tribute from Minority Leader and Effutu MP, Alexander Afenyo-Markin. Speaking in a sombre tone, he reflected on the profound loss felt not only by Parliament but also by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the nation at large.

“God knows best,” Afenyo-Markin said, visibly moved. “I just checked the background of this young man. Born in 1984, he pursued his first degree and went on to earn three additional qualifications — an MBA in Corporate Governance, an LLB in Law, and an MSc in Defence and International Politics. He had previously worked as a security manager and was proud to join this chamber.”

Though Ernest Kumi’s time in Parliament was brief, colleagues praised his dedication, humility, and strong sense of responsibility.

“Mr. Speaker, a lot can be said,” Afenyo-Markin noted. “But I would want us to relive the credentials he brought to this House. His contributions, both in plenary and at the committee level, were profound — though sadly, not widely known.”

The Minority Leader, known for his fiery debates, paused as he emotionally described Kumi as more than a colleague — calling him “a brother.”

“This brother had all that anyone would want in a brother,” he said. “Mr. Speaker, he lived the prayer of this House — ‘a country of righteousness where none shall wrong his neighbour.’ In his few months in this chamber, no one can say he was controversial or that he wronged a colleague.”

Afenyo-Markin remembered Kumi as a quiet but joyful presence in Parliament. “He was always there — seeing him every day, happy.”

With deep sorrow, he announced that the NPP Minority Caucus, now reduced from 88 to 87 members, was requesting the suspension of proceedings for the day.

“Mr. Speaker, this House is aware we had a full programme scheduled. It is the prayer of this side of the House that today’s proceedings be terminated in honour of our departed colleague,” he said.

Kumi’s passing, just months into his first term, has left a significant void in Parliament and in the hearts of many. He is remembered as a principled, promising public servant who entered the House with a strong commitment to duty and integrity.