Accra:An Accra High Court is set to rule on November 4 regarding an application for bail pending appeal, filed by Bernard Antwi Boasiako, also known as Wontumi, the former Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP). Boasiako is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence for facilitating illegal mining activities on a concession in Samreboi, located in the Western Region.
According to Ghana News Agency, Boasiako's lawyer, Mr. Samuel Atta Akyea, urged the court to grant bail, arguing that his client poses no flight risk and that the appeal has a reasonable chance of success. Atta Akyea highlighted that Boasiako’s passport is held by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), countering claims that he might abscond if released. Additionally, he stated that bail would allow Boasiako to address two other cases pending in separate High Courts.
The Deputy Attorney-General, Dr. Justice Srem-Sai, opposed the bail application, contending that Boasiako has not shown the exceptional circumstances needed for bail pending appeal. He cited concerns over the 20-year sentence and the additional pending cases against Boasiako. The Deputy Attorney-General also pointed out a bench warrant that was issued against Boasiako during the trial.
Boasiako was sentenced on July 20, 2026, by Justice Audrey Kocuvie-Tay, having been found guilty of facilitating unlicensed mining at Samreboi. Several senior members of the NPP attended the hearing on Thursday.