A 40-day memorial service is being held at Akyem Wenchi in the Eastern Region in honour of the late Ernest Yaw Kumi, Member of Parliament for the Akwatia Constituency.

The ceremony, organised by the Asona and Ekuona families in partnership with the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has drawn the full leadership of the party. Among those in attendance are former Vice President and flagbearer hopeful for the 2028 general elections, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, his running mate, Mr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, and other leading members of the NPP.

The observance comes just days ahead of the Akwatia by-election, scheduled for September 2.

Mr. Kumi passed away on Sunday, July 7, 2025, after a short illness. His death shocked many, occurring only months after he was sworn into Parliament, following a prolonged legal battle that affirmed his victory in the 2024 general elections.