Accra: Lawyer Andy Appiah-Kubi, counsel for Ashanti Regional New Patriotic Party (NPP) Chairman Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has dismissed claims that his client's decision to seek plea negotiations in the Exim Bank case is an indication of guilt.
According to Ghana Web, in an interview on Asempa FM on June 11, 2026, Appiah-Kubi explained that Ghana's plea bargaining framework upholds the constitutional principle that every accused person remains innocent until proven guilty. He emphasized that opting for a plea bargain does not imply guilt, questioning the motives behind the Attorney-General's actions.
Chairman Wontumi has formally requested to enter plea negotiations with the Attorney-General concerning his criminal trial involving an alleged GHS14.3 million loan fraud case linked to the Ghana Export-Import Bank (EXIM Bank). Appiah-Kubi highlighted that plea bargaining is governed by Act 1079, which amended parts of the Criminal and Other Offences (Procedure) Act.
Appiah-Kubi clarified that misconceptions about plea negotiations largely arise from public unawareness of the law. He elaborated that the legislation allows for negotiations that might lead to the withdrawal of charges against an accused person. He also pointed out legal requirements for prosecutors to inform accused persons of their rights before any plea discussions start, stressing that applying for plea negotiations should not be seen as an admission of guilt.
The lawyer revealed that no discussions have yet occurred regarding the terms of a possible agreement, questioning why conclusions are being drawn prematurely. He argued that if the process leads to the withdrawal of charges, suggestions of a conviction would be baseless. Appiah-Kubi concluded by urging the public to better understand the legal framework of plea bargaining and avoid speculation, as it is unfair.