A delegation from the National Democratic Congress (NDC), led by its National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketia, encountered hostility during the one-week memorial service of the late Akwatia MP, Ernest Yaw Kumi.

According to NDC Deputy General Secretary Mustapha Gbande, the team was at the Akyem Wenchi funeral grounds to sympathize with the bereaved family when sections of the crowd turned on them.

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen, he explained that while some mourners warmly received the delegation, others began booing and allegedly attempted to physically attack them.

“The National Chairman, myself, the National Organiser, the Deputy Communications Officer, and Regional Executives were present. Unfortunately, the overwhelming reception given to our chairman provoked some individuals who then sought to launch an attack,” Gbande claimed.

He described the incident as a worrying sign of possible violence ahead of the Akwatia by-election slated for September 2, 2025.

Gbande, however, acknowledged that Eastern Regional NPP Chairman Jeff Konadu Addo, together with some traditional leaders, later approached the NDC delegation to apologize for the development.

A video of the confrontation has since circulated on social media.

The one-week observance, themed My Hero Lives On, drew family members, friends, colleagues, political figures, and community members who gathered to mourn the late lawmaker.

Mr. Kumi passed away on Monday, July 7, 2025, after a brief illness at the age of 40. He is survived by his wife and children.