The Accra High Court has adjourned its ruling on the bail application filed by former New Patriotic Party (NPP) Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, to November 4, 2026.
The decision follows a hearing on Thursday, October 15, during which lawyers for Chairman Wontumi and representatives of the state presented arguments on whether he should be granted bail pending an appeal against his conviction and 20-year prison sentence.
Wontumi’s legal team, led by Samuel Atta Akyea, urged the court to grant their client temporary freedom to enable him to participate in preparing and pursuing his appeal. The defence also argued that the grounds of appeal were substantial and had reasonable prospects of success.
His lawyers further maintained that his release would allow him to consult effectively with his legal team as they prepare the necessary documents for the appeal process.
However, the state, represented by Deputy Attorney-General Dr Justice Srem-Sai, opposed the application, arguing that Wontumi posed a flight risk and that there were no exceptional circumstances to justify granting him bail while his appeal was pending.
The court, presided over by Justice Audrey Kocuvie-Tay, subsequently adjourned proceedings to Wednesday, November 4, 2026, when it is expected to deliver its ruling on the application.
Chairman Wontumi was sentenced to 20 years’ imprisonment in July 2026 following his conviction on illegal mining-related offences connected to activities on his Samreboi concession in the Western Region. The court also imposed a fine of GH¢120,000.
He is currently being held at the Nsawam Medium Security Prison as he pursues an appeal against his conviction and sentence.
The November 4 ruling will determine whether the former NPP Ashanti Regional Chairman will be granted temporary release while his appeal is being pursued.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Mensah Moses
