Ghana’s Parliament was adjourned on Monday in a mark of respect following the sudden passing of Akwatia MP, Ernest Kumi, who reportedly died of a heart attack.

His death comes just weeks after a Supreme Court decision cleared him of a contempt conviction stemming from a disputed injunction that had previously barred him from serving in Parliament. The earlier ruling had sparked controversy, with a High Court sentencing looming until the Supreme Court overturned the decision in June, citing judicial bias.

Kumi’s return to the House had been seen by many as a vindication—making Monday’s news all the more shocking.

Confirming the development in a somber chamber, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin described the late MP as a committed public servant whose brief but eventful tenure leaves a lasting impression.