Late MP for Akwatia, Ernest Yaw Kumi and Effia MP, Isaac Boamah-Nyarko
The Member of Parliament for Effia, Isaac Boamah-Nyarko, has paid glowing tribute to the late Ernest Kumi, the Member of Parliament for Akwatia, shedding light on the quiet but impactful contributions he made during his short time in Ghana’s Parliament.
Speaking in a heartfelt recollection on Peace FM, Boamah-Nyarko revealed that Kumi, despite facing legal battles early in his political career, remained deeply committed to serving his constituents and upholding the dignity of Parliament.
“When he was dragged to court, he confided in me that he did not want to contribute on the floor of Parliament because of the case. He felt that any public comment could be used against him,” Boamah-Nyarko disclosed. “He told me, ‘Lawyer, because of what I am being put through, I don’t want to make any contribution on the floor for some time.’”
Despite his silence in the House during that period, Hon. Boamah-Nyarko described the late Kumi as a man of depth and intellect, someone who could confidently discuss issues ranging from economics to business in private conversations.
“He was very knowledgeable and well-versed in many areas. Those who interacted with him knew his worth,” he added.
According to Boamah-Nyarko, Ernest Kumi was cautious not to give his political opponents ammunition while his legal matters were ongoing, especially after he was accused of speaking too freely despite being in court and was later cited for contempt.
“Eventually, after two months, we discussed the matter again and agreed that the people of Akwatia deserved to hear from their MP. We re-strategised, and he returned to parliamentary debates with renewed focus,” the Effia MP stated.
Hon. Boamah-Nyarko praised Kumi’s courage in eventually breaking his silence, noting that unlike many MPs who spend years in Parliament without finding their voice, Kumi rose to speak about five to six times, always extemporaneously and with conviction.
He also recalled Kumi’s development-focused vision for his constituency. “When he visited Takoradi, he outlined his plans to lift the people of Akwatia out of poverty and improve education in the area. That’s why he was always visiting the constituency, he genuinely cared.”
Ernest Kumi, a first-timer in Parliament served for six months amid the legal battle challenging his victory in the 2024 parliamentary election.
He passed away on Monday, July 7, 2025 after a short illness.
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