Bawumia Links Court Case Pressure to NPP MP's Death in Akwatia

NPP Flagbearer Makes Controversial Claims During Campaign

Former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has alleged that legal pressure from an election petition contributed to the death of Ernest Yaw Kumi, the late New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament for Akwatia constituency.

Speaking to chiefs at Akyem Wenchi ahead of the upcoming by-election, Bawumia claimed that the court case filed by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) challenging Kumi's 2024 electoral victory led to fatal health complications.

Legal Battle's Alleged Health Impact

According to Dr. Bawumia, who is now leading the NPP's campaign efforts much like other prominent political figures before him, Kumi suffered from severe hypertension due to alleged intimidation and sleeplessness caused by the prolonged court battle.

"Ernest Kumi got elected in 2024 after he lost the seat in a prior election. However, the NDC did not accept the results and filed a suit against him. He could not sleep because of the court. He was hounded and intimidated. So, his blood pressure just kept rising. He died 26 days after the court's final verdict," Bawumia stated.

Political Implications

The situation has drawn parallels to other recent political controversies involving public officials. Bawumia specifically pointed out that Bernard Baidoo, the NDC's candidate for the by-election, served as lead counsel in the case against Kumi.

This development has sparked discussions about political unity and democratic processes in Ghana, with social media users expressing diverse opinions on the appropriateness of using such sensitive matters in campaign rhetoric.

Public Reaction

The claims have generated significant debate on social media platforms, with many Ghanaians questioning the ethics of using personal tragedy for political gain. Others have pointed to similar legal challenges faced by politicians across party lines who managed their stress differently.