In a development that has captured the attention of many Ghanaians, the release of Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has been delayed despite meeting bail conditions. The delay, according to his legal counsel, Andy Appiah-Kubi, is due to bureaucratic challenges within state institutions.
Speaking during an interview on Joy FM’s Midday News, Mr. Appiah-Kubi confirmed that Chairman Wontumi had fulfilled all bail requirements but noted that administrative processes were yet to be finalized.
“You know we have been granted bail, and we have been able to meet the conditions of the bail, except that the processing of the order is what is delaying it,” he stated.
The lawyer explained that the execution of the court’s bail order involves verification and confirmation steps that are managed by state institutions. These include verifying the properties submitted as part of the bail conditions and confirming their valuation. Mr. Appiah-Kubi pointed out that these processes are taking longer than anticipated.
One of the specific agencies involved in this process is the Lands Commission. According to Mr. Appiah-Kubi, officials initially encountered difficulties in locating the registration plan for one of the properties submitted to meet the bail requirements. However, he indicated that progress had been made on this front.
“I’m told that it has now been identified, and the report is being sent to the registrar of the court,” he disclosed.
Despite these delays, Mr. Appiah-Kubi expressed optimism that the necessary processes would be completed by the end of the day, paving the way for Chairman Wontumi’s release from custody.
Background on Chairman Wontumi’s Legal Troubles
Chairman Wontumi has been in custody since Tuesday, October 7, following his arrest in connection with two separate cases involving alleged illegal mining activities. The Accra High Court’s Criminal Division granted him bail in the sum of GH₵15 million; however, his release has been stalled due to administrative hurdles.
The cases in question involve Akonta Mining Limited, a company linked to Chairman Wontumi, and alleged mining operations in the Nimiri Forest Reserve located in the Western North Region of Ghana. He faces multiple charges, including undertaking illegal mining operations and causing unlawful damage to the environment.
Adding to his legal challenges, Chairman Wontumi has been placed on a stop list, effectively barring him from traveling outside Ghana until the resolution of his case.
Broader Implications
This case highlights the complexities and inefficiencies that can arise within Ghana’s judicial and administrative systems. While Chairman Wontumi’s legal team remains hopeful for a swift resolution, the delays underscore the need for streamlining bureaucratic processes within state institutions to ensure timely justice.
As this case unfolds, it serves as yet another reminder of the critical importance of transparency and accountability in matters involving environmental protection and natural resource management. The allegations against Chairman Wontumi and Akonta Mining Limited have drawn significant public interest, particularly as illegal mining continues to pose serious environmental and social challenges in Ghana.
For now, all eyes remain on the relevant authorities to see how quickly they can resolve these administrative hurdles and facilitate Chairman Wontumi’s release.
