In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court of Ghana has overturned the contempt conviction of Ernest Yaw Kumi, the Member of Parliament for Akwatia. The apex court also nullified the execution of the bench warrant issued by Justice Emmanuel Senyo Amadehe following Kumi’s conviction.
The contempt conviction stemmed from a petition filed by Henry Boakye-Yiadom, the National Democratic Congress parliamentary candidate in Akwatia, alleging irregularities in the parliamentary election that led to Kumi’s victory. Kumi was convicted of contempt after allegedly ignoring a court injunction.
Background of the Case
The Koforidua High Court had issued a bench warrant for Kumi’s arrest after he failed to appear before the court for sentencing on February 19, 2025. The court also restrained him from presenting himself for swearing-in into the ninth Parliament. However, Kumi proceeded to be sworn in as an MP on January 7, 2025, despite the injunction .
Supreme Court’s Decision*l
The Supreme Court’s decision to overturn the contempt conviction brings an end to a contentious legal battle that had been ongoing for several months. The court’s ruling is significant, as it sets a precedent for the interpretation of parliamentary privilege and the limits of judicial power in Ghana ¹.
Implications of the Ruling
The Supreme Court’s decision is likely to have far-reaching implications for Ghana’s political landscape. It remains to be seen how this ruling will impact future cases involving MPs and the judiciary. Alexander Afriyie, ghanatalk.com, Ghanacrimereport.com