Accra: The Accra High Court has rescheduled the bail application hearing for Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, also known as Chairman Wontumi, the former Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), to October 15, 2026. This decision follows the absence of both Wontumi and his lead counsel, Samuel Atta Akyea, from the courtroom on the initially scheduled date of August 19, 2026.
According to Ghana Web, the proceedings were expected to progress with Wontumi's legal team moving the application. However, the courtroom presence was limited to Gary Nimako, the NPP's Director of Legal Affairs. The absence of the trial judge this week further necessitated the postponement, as confirmed by court officials.
In a statement to journalists, Justice Srem Sai, the Deputy Attorney General and Minister of Justice, acknowledged the delay in the bail application process. He stated, "Today was supposed to be the hearing of Chairman Wontumi's bail application case, but it has been adjourned to October 15."
Currently, Chairman Wontumi is serving a 20-year sentence imposed by the Accra High Court following his conviction on charges related to illegal mining activities.