The late Dr. John Ampontuah Kumah, former Deputy Finance Minister and Member of Parliament for Ejisu Constituency, was laid to rest today in a solemn ceremony in Kumasi.
Dr. Kumah, who passed away at the age of 45 after a short illness, was remembered for his significant contributions to Ghanaian politics and public service.
A high-powered government delegation led by Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia joined the family and mourners to observe the final funeral rites of the late party stalwart.
In his tribute, Vice President Bawumia highlighted the late MP's unwavering support during his campaign to become the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
“True to his public pledge, John supported me strongly, campaigning with me everywhere in the country when I finally announced my decision to contest as flagbearer of the NPP.
He desired to see me win the December elections, and I pray that God will grant his desires for me, the party, and the country,” Dr. Bawumia stated.
Among those present at the funeral were regional officers of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and Alan Kyerematen, Founder of the Movement for Change, who came to pay their respects and mourn with the family.
Early Life and Education
Born on August 4, 1978, in Ejisu Odaho, Ashanti Region, Ghana, Dr. Kumah attended Opoku Ware School for his secondary education.
He went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Economics with Philosophy from the University of Ghana (Legon) and an MBA in Finance from GIMPA in 2009.
He also obtained a Degree in Law (LLB) from the University of Ghana and a Professional Law Degree (BL) from the Ghana School of Law.
In 2019, Dr. Kumah completed a Post Graduate Diploma in Applied Business Research from the Nobel International Business School and received a Doctorate in Business Innovation from the Swiss Business School in Switzerland, alongside a Master's in Applied Research (Business Innovation).
Career
Dr. Kumah was admitted to the Ghana Bar as a Solicitor and Legal Practitioner in 2013.
He was a founding member and Managing Partner of Aduaprokye Chambers, and the founder of Majak Associates Ltd, a construction company.
Prior to his tenure in government, he served as the CEO of the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP) until 2020.
In April 2021, Dr. Kumah was appointed as the Deputy Minister of Finance, a position he held until his untimely demise.
His political career also saw him elected as the Member of Parliament for the Ejisu constituency in the 2020 general elections under the NPP.
He held various positions in parliamentary committees, including Vice Chairperson of the Constitutional, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Committee.
Legacy
Dr. John Kumah's passing is a significant loss to the Ejisu community and the nation at large. His dedication to public service, evident in his numerous roles and achievements, has left an indelible mark.
As he is laid to rest, his contributions to the economic and political landscape of Ghana are celebrated, and his legacy as a committed public servant endures.
Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith
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