Koforidua, Ghana – February 18, 2025
The Member of Parliament (MP) for Akwatia, Ernest Yaw Kumi, has been convicted for contempt of court by the Koforidua High Court.
The court, presided over by Justice Senyo Amedahe, found Ernest Kumi guilty of willfully disobeying an interim injunction that barred him from being sworn in as MP for Akwatia. Despite the court order, Kumi proceeded to participate in the swearing-in ceremony.
Bench Warrant Issued for Arrest
Following his absence in court during sentencing, Justice Amedahe issued a bench warrant for his immediate arrest.
The court rejected a letter from the Minority Caucus in Parliament, which stated that Kumi’s absence was due to other pressing commitments. The judge ruled that accepting this excuse would contradict his earlier decision, which prohibited Kumi from holding himself as an MP.
Legal Reactions and Implications
Bernard Bediako, Counsel for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Parliamentary Candidate for Akwatia, argued that the conviction implies Kumi can no longer legally hold himself as an MP.
Bediako remarked, “The court stated that acknowledging his status as an MP would contradict its ruling. As it stands, he is in contempt, and the legal implications are clear.”
Background
The court had issued an interim injunction against Kumi following a legal challenge to his election. Despite this, he attended the swearing-in ceremony, prompting the contempt proceedings.
The case has sparked political and legal discussions about compliance with judicial orders and the role of parliamentary immunity.
Next Steps
The police have been instructed to execute the bench warrant, while legal experts anticipate further appeals or political interventions.
