Accra: The Global Media Foundation (GloMeF) Ghana LBG has condemned the minority in parliament for criticising the judiciary over the conviction of Bernard Antwi Boasiako, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP). Boasiako, widely known as 'Chairman Wuntumi', was convicted by an Accra High Court for illegal mining offences and is currently serving a 20-year jail term.
According to Ghana News Agency, GloMeF is a Sunyani-based human rights and anti-corruption media advocacy Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO). The minority in parliament has criticised the sentence, describing Boasiako's conviction as a 'miscarriage of justice'. In a statement issued and signed by Mr Raphael Godlove Ahenu, the Chief Executive Officer of GloMeF, the organisation called for respect for the rule of law and equal justice for all.
The statement noted that the comments by the minority were "unfortunate, irresponsible, and capable of undermining public confidence in the judicial system." It emphasised that the independence of the judiciary is essential for consolidating the gains of the nation's democracy. The statement further stressed that every accused person is entitled to a fair trial and, if dissatisfied with a judgment, has the right to appeal.
GloMeF's statement criticised political leaders for discrediting the courts due to judgments affecting their affiliates. It reminded the NPP of its previous stance advocating stronger measures against illegal mining and supporting amendments to the Minerals and Mining Act to impose tougher sanctions on offenders. The statement pointed out the inconsistency in the NPP's current position, condemning the application of laws it once promoted.
The statement underscored the serious threat illegal mining poses to Ghana's natural resources, public health, and livelihoods, highlighting the need for consistent enforcement of laws without political bias. It urged the NPP and minority in parliament to respect judicial independence and avoid comments that could erode public confidence in justice administration.
Furthermore, the statement called on political parties to support accountability in the fight against corruption and illegal mining, irrespective of personal affiliations. It urged law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute all suspects implicated in illegal mining without fear or political interference. The statement concluded by asserting that the fight against illegal mining is a national duty, not a political contest, and reiterated GloMeF's commitment to promoting transparency, accountability, and the rule of law.