The recent passing of Akwatia MP, Ernest Yaw Kumi, has sparked controversy following comments made by Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the former Vice President and 2024 NPP flagbearer. During a campaign rally for the upcoming Akwatia by-election, Bawumia attributed Kumi’s death to the stress and pressure induced by the legal challenge to his 2024 election victory. This assertion has drawn sharp criticism, particularly from Elikem Kotoko, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Forestry Commission and Deputy National Organizer of the NDC.
Kotoko vehemently denounced Bawumia’s remarks, labeling them as insensitive, reckless, and irresponsible, especially considering the family’s ongoing mourning period. He questioned the basis of Bawumia’s claim, emphasizing the lack of any publicly available medical report or professional opinion supporting the assertion that court pressure caused Kumi’s death. Kotoko further argued that such a statement trivializes the complex nature of death and grief, and shows a lack of respect for the deceased and his family.
Moreover, Kotoko highlighted the hypocrisy in Bawumia’s statement by drawing a parallel to the 2012 election petition against former President John Mahama. Bawumia played a prominent role in that legal challenge, which was undoubtedly a stressful undertaking. Kotoko pointed out that if legal battles were indeed fatal, Bawumia himself might have succumbed to the pressure during the 2012 petition. This comparison underscores the perceived insensitivity and lack of empathy in Bawumia’s comments.
The controversy surrounding Bawumia’s statement raises concerns about the politicization of death and the potential for using such sensitive events for political gain. Kotoko’s response reflects a broader sentiment that Bawumia’s remarks were not only inappropriate but also exploitative, leveraging a tragic event to influence the upcoming by-election. This incident highlights the importance of maintaining decorum and respect during times of grief, particularly in the public and political sphere.
Furthermore, the debate surrounding Kumi’s death underscores the potential emotional and psychological toll that legal battles, especially those with high stakes like election petitions, can take on individuals. While there is no evidence to substantiate Bawumia’s claim directly, the discussion brings to light the need for greater awareness and support for individuals involved in such stressful situations. It also raises questions about the potential impact of political pressure on the health and well-being of elected officials.
In conclusion, Bawumia’s linking of Kumi’s death to the election petition has ignited a controversy, drawing sharp condemnation from political opponents and raising concerns about the politicization of a tragic event. Kotoko’s strong response reflects the broader sentiment that Bawumia’s remarks were insensitive and inappropriate. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting the grieving process and refraining from exploiting personal tragedies for political gain, while also highlighting the potential stress associated with high-stakes legal battles and the need for support systems for those involved.
