Bernard
Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, the Ashanti Regional
Chairman of Ghana’s opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), has been released
from the custody of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO). His release
follows the fulfillment of stringent bail conditions, after nearly a week of
legal proceedings and political tension.
The NPP’s
General Secretary, Justin Kodua, confirmed the development on Monday evening,
stating that Wontumi was released after complying with the bail requirements.
He also commended Dr. Bryan Acheampong, a prominent NPP figure, for providing
one of the sureties necessary for Wontumi’s release.
Wontumi was
granted bail amounting to GH₵50 million, with two sureties to be justified,
following his arrest on Tuesday, May 27. The arrest was linked to
investigations into allegations of fraud, money laundering, and causing
financial loss to the state. Authorities also indicated a possible connection
to an international organised crime syndicate, as disclosed by Deputy
Attorney-General Justice Srem-Sai.
In addition
to EOCO’s investigation, the Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) is reportedly
preparing its own docket on Wontumi’s activities, indicating a multi-agency
probe into his financial dealings.
The legal
process was fraught with challenges. Wontumi’s legal team initially struggled
to meet the high bail threshold, leading to his detention for several days.
However, Andy Appiah-Kubi, his lead counsel, confirmed on May 30 that the
necessary documentation had been finalized, with significant support from Bryan
Acheampong, whose surety documents were described as “more than sufficient” to
cover the bail amount.
Despite
meeting the bail conditions, Wontumi’s release was delayed by an unexpected
legal challenge—a request for a review of the bail terms. The application was
filed to seek a reconsideration of the conditions but was ultimately withdrawn
on June 2, clearing the way for his immediate release.
While
released, Wontumi is expected to cooperate fully with ongoing investigations,
as stipulated in his bail agreement. The review hearing scheduled for June 3,
2025, was canceled following the withdrawal of the application, effectively
concluding this chapter of the legal proceedings.
As the
investigation continues, Wontumi’s case remains a focal point in Ghanaian
political and legal discourse, highlighting ongoing concerns about the
intersection of politics, law enforcement, and accountability.
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