Accra: The trial involving Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi, has reached its concluding phase at the Accra High Court. Despite the anticipation within the courtroom, the focus seems to have shifted to the vibrant discussions taking place on social media platforms.
According to Ghana Web, several individuals associated with the National Democratic Congress (NDC), including party activists, have been making posts online. These posts suggest that the verdict of the trial is already evident, with many predicting a prison sentence for Wontumi. However, the court has yet to deliver any official ruling, and the judge is scheduled to announce the final judgment on July 3, 2026.
The case centers around allegations related to mining and environmental regulations. As per the Minerals and Mining (Amendment) Act, 2019 (Act 995), a guilty conviction could result in a prison term ranging from a minimum of 15 years to a maximum of 25 years. Wontumi, who holds the position of Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), was formally charged in October 2025 along with his company, Akonta Mining Limited, and a company director, Kwame Antwi, who remains at large.
The prosecution, led by the Office of the Attorney General, concluded its case after presenting witnesses, while the defense wrapped up its arguments on June 3, 2026, with testimony from former Western Regional Minister Okyere Darko Mensah. Both the prosecution and defense are set to submit their final written arguments by June 17, 2026, in preparation for the court's impending decision.