"I've lost a strong supporter" - Bawumia eulogizes Late John Kumah

In a heartfelt tribute, Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has eulogized the late Deputy Finance Minister, Dr. John Ampontuah Kumah, during his burial service on May 18 in Ejisu, Ashanti Region.

Dr. Bawumia paid homage to Dr. Kumah's selflessness, intellectual brilliance, and warm personality, underscoring the deep sense of loss felt across the nation.

A Nation Mourns

Dr. Bawumia expressed the profound sorrow and shock that has gripped the country following Dr. Kumah's untimely death.

"He was renowned for his selflessness, intellectual brilliance, and warm personality, a man blessed with a good heart. His departure has left a void, and this grief is beyond consolation. Nature has dealt us a cruel blow, taking John away in his prime," he lamented.

Celebrating a Remarkable Legacy

Reflecting on Dr. Kumah's contributions to the nation, Dr. Bawumia highlighted the significant impact of his work despite his short life.

“Indeed, we have lost a dedicated public servant. I have lost a friend and a strong supporter. We appeal and pray to the good Lord to keep John in his bosom,” he added, emphasizing the personal and collective grief shared by many.

An Astute Legislator and Principled Politician

Dr. Bawumia, who doubles as the 2024 flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), lauded Dr. Kumah's political journey, noting that his role transcended mere career ambitions.

“His journey in Ghanaian politics transcended mere career. He was an astute legislator and a principled politician, whose dedication to advocacy and profound empathy for citizens, particularly his constituents, made him a beacon of hope and a man of the people,” he said.

A Life of Service

Born on August 4, 1978, in Ejisu Odaho, Ashanti Region, Dr. Kumah's educational journey began at Opoku Ware School and led to a Bachelor of Arts in Economics with Philosophy from the University of Ghana, Legon.

He earned an MBA in Finance from GIMPA in 2009, a Law degree (LLB) from the University of Ghana, and a Professional Law Degree (BL) from the Ghana School of Law.

His academic achievements culminated in a Doctorate in Business Innovation from the Swiss Business School in Switzerland.

Professional and Political Career

Admitted to the Ghana Bar in 2013, Dr. Kumah was a founding member and managing partner of Aduaprokye Chambers and founder of Majak Associates Ltd.

His professional journey included serving as CEO of the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP) before his appointment as Deputy Finance Minister in 2021.

A Lasting Impact

Dr. Kumah's commitment to public service was evident in his roles within various parliamentary committees, including Vice Chairperson of the Constitutional, Legal, and Parliamentary Affairs Committee.

His dedication to his constituents and his advocacy for progressive policies left an indelible mark on Ghanaian politics.

A Farewell with Heavy Hearts

The final farewell to Dr. Kumah was attended by a high-powered government delegation led by Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, alongside family, friends, and political figures from both the NPP and the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

Among the mourners was Alan Kyerematen, Founder of the Movement for Change, who joined in paying respects to a man whose life and work touched many.

Dr. Bawumia's tribute captured the essence of Dr. Kumah's life and legacy: "John's journey in public service and politics was marked by his deep empathy and unwavering dedication to improving the lives of Ghanaians. His memory will continue to inspire us as we strive to fulfill the vision he had for our nation."

Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith