Accra: The Court of Appeal has dismissed an application by the lawyers of Bernard Antwi-Bosiako, also known as Chairman Wontumi, to stop his ongoing criminal trial at an Accra High Court. Wontumi, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party, faces charges related to illegal mining activities in Samreboi.
According to Ghana Web, the Court of Appeal's ruling on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, stated that Wontumi's application failed to demonstrate any exceptional circumstances that would justify a stay of proceedings. As a result, the court has allowed the High Court trial to continue, directing Wontumi to respond to the charges.
Wontumi's legal team had previously argued for a suspension of the trial until an appeal against the decision could be fully resolved. However, both the High Court and the Court of Appeal have now denied this request, clearing the way for the trial to proceed.
In response to the latest ruling, Andy Appiah-Kubi, lead counsel for Chairman Wontumi, indicated that the defence team is evaluating the decision and considering their next steps. Potential actions include appealing to the Supreme Court or returning to the High Court to begin the defence phase, depending on their legal strategy.
Chairman Wontumi and Akonta Mining Limited are charged with six counts, including allegedly allowing unauthorized individuals, Henry Okum and Michael Gyedu Ayisi, to mine on the company's concession without the necessary ministerial approval, and for facilitating unlicensed mining activities.