The New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the people of Akwatia have been plunged into mourning following the sudden passing of Ernest Yaw Kumi, the Member of Parliament for the Akwatia Constituency in the Eastern Region.
Mr. Kumi, popularly known as the “Akwatia Star Boy,” reportedly died on Monday, July 7, 2025. Sources close to the family say he suffered a heart attack, although official confirmation on the exact cause of death is still awaited.
The NPP’s Eastern Regional Executive Committee has since confirmed the tragic news, describing Mr. Kumi’s passing as a devastating loss to the party, his constituents, and the nation as a whole.
In a statement signed by the Eastern Regional Communications Officer, Evans Osei Yeboah, the party expressed shock and deep sorrow, highlighting Mr. Kumi’s dedication to the development of Akwatia and his tireless service to the NPP.
The party extended condolences to Mr. Kumi’s family, the chiefs, and residents of Akwatia, urging all to remain united in this moment of grief.
“This heartbreaking news has come as a great shock to the Party, the people of Akwatia, and the nation at large. Hon. Kumi was a dedicated public servant whose commitment to the development of Akwatia and the ideals of the NPP was unwavering. We extend our deepest condolences to his immediate family, the chiefs and people of the Akwatia Constituency, and the entire NPP fraternity across the country,” the statement read.
Mr. Kumi’s death comes amid ongoing legal battles surrounding his election as MP. Earlier on Monday, the Koforidua High Court issued a bench warrant for his arrest after he failed to appear before the court to answer contempt charges.
Mr. Kumi was serving his first term in Parliament, having won the fiercely contested Akwatia seat in the December 2024 elections.
His victory ended what had been a traditional swing constituency, with both the NPP and NDC fiercely competing for dominance.