Wontumi Seeks Freedom: Businessman Applies for Bail Pending Appeal

Wontumi Seeks Freedom: Businessman Applies for Bail Pending Appeal

Wontumi Seeks Bail Amid 20-Year Imprisonment Sentence

Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Wontumi, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has filed an application at the High Court seeking bail pending the determination of his appeal against his conviction. The application was filed on August 5, 2026, at the High Court, Criminal Division '4' in Accra.

Application Filed on Grounds of Appeal

The application, filed by Wontumi's lawyer, Samuel Atta Akyea of Zoe, Akyea & Co., invokes Section 96(1) of the Criminal and Other Offences (Procedure) Act, 1960 (Act 30) and Section 33(1) of the Courts Act, 1993 (Act 459). The application prays the court to admit Wontumi to bail pending the hearing and determination of his appeal, relying on the grounds set out in an accompanying affidavit.

Wontumi's Incarceration at Nsawam Medium Security Prisons

Wontumi is currently incarcerated at the Nsawam Medium Security Prisons, awaiting the outcome of his appeal. The case, titled The Republic v. Bernard Antwi Boasiako @ Wontumi, Kwame Antwi (at large), and Akonta Mining Company Limited, has Wontumi listed as the first appellant/applicant and Akonta Mining Company Limited as the third appellant.

Application Scheduled for August 19, 2026

The application has been scheduled to be moved before the High Court, Criminal Division '4' in Accra on August 19, 2026. Copies of the application have been served on the Office of the Attorney-General as the respondent, as well as the Director of the Nsawam Medium Security Prisons.

Conviction Over Illegal Mining Activities

Wontumi, along with Akonta Mining Limited and a third accused person, Kwame Antwi, was prosecuted over illegal mining activities on the company's concession at Samreboi in the Western Region. He was sentenced to 20 years' imprisonment after Criminal Court 4 Division of the High Court found him guilty on all six charges brought against him.

What Happens Next

The High Court is expected to determine whether Wontumi should be granted bail while his appeal against the conviction is pending. This decision will have significant implications for Wontumi's future and the ongoing investigation into the illegal mining activities.

Source: Joy Online