In the last five years, Ghana’s Parliament has mourned the loss of several sitting Members of Parliament (MPs) who passed away while still serving their constituencies.
These untimely deaths sent shockwaves through their parties, constituencies, and the nation at large, prompting by-elections and heartfelt tributes in their honour.
Below, thecustodianghonline.com looks at four Ghanaian MPs who sadly died in office between 2020 and 2025.
- Ernest Yaw Kumi (Akwatia Constituency – NPP)
Date of death: July 7, 2025
The Member of Parliament for Akwatia, Ernest Kumi, died following a brief illness that had kept him away from parliamentary duties in recent days.
His passing has left Parliament and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in mourning.
Kumi, a first-term MP elected on the NPP ticket, had recently been involved in a high-profile legal battle regarding the legitimacy of his seat.
His death comes just weeks after the Supreme Court overturned his contempt conviction in connection with the disputed 2024 parliamentary election results.
His sudden demise marks a significant loss for both his constituents and the NPP.
- John Kumah (Ejisu Constituency – NPP)
Date of death: March 7, 2024
Deputy Finance Minister and MP for Ejisu, John Kumah, died at the age of 45 after a period of illness. A lawyer and entrepreneur, Kumah was widely seen as a rising star within the New Patriotic Party (NPP). He was elected in 2020 and quickly gained a reputation for his articulate economic advocacy and commitment to youth development. His death shocked many, especially given his growing influence both in Parliament and within his party.
- Philip Basoah (Kumawu Constituency – NPP)
Date of death: March 27, 2023
Philip Basoah, a three-term MP for Kumawu, passed away at the age of 53 after a short illness. He was a member of the Parliamentary Committee on Employment, Social Welfare and State Enterprises.
Basoah was known for his quiet yet effective style of politics. His passing led to a by-election in Kumawu, which was held in May 2023. The NPP retained the seat with a new candidate.
- Ekow Hayford (Mfantseman Constituency – NPP)
Date of death: October 9, 2020
One of the most tragic incidents in recent Ghanaian politics was the killing of Ekow Quansah Hayford. The Mfantseman MP was shot dead by armed robbers while returning from a campaign trip just weeks before the 2020 general elections.
His death shocked the nation and highlighted the risks politicians face on the campaign trail. His widow, Ophelia Hayford, later contested and won the seat on the NPP’s ticket.
