Accra: The State has lodged a preliminary legal objection in the High Court's Criminal Division against a motion submitted by Andy Appiah-Kubi, the defense lawyer for Bernard Antwi Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi. The objection challenges Appiah-Kubi's attempt to withdraw from Wontumi's illegal mining trial.
According to Ghana Web, the prosecution argues that Appiah-Kubi's application to withdraw legal services is procedurally improper due to issues related to jurisdiction, capacity, and legal standing. The motion was filed by Appiah-Kubi, who formally notified the court of his intention to step down from representing Chairman Wontumi in the Samreboi illegal mining case that involves his client and Akonta Mining Limited.
During an appearance on Asempa FM's Ekosii Sen program, Appiah-Kubi confirmed that he had submitted an affidavit to the court explaining his reasons for withdrawing. He emphasized that his decision was not influenced by the expected outcome of the trial.
Appiah-Kubi stated, "I have filed a motion to withdraw from the case. My reasons are in the affidavit. I am withdrawing my legal services." He noted his discomfort with the rapid progress of the case and indicated plans to petition the Ghana Bar Association regarding the handling of the matter.
Meanwhile, the trial concerning Chairman Wontumi and Akonta Mining Limited over alleged illegal mining activities in Samreboi has reached its conclusion. The Accra High Court has scheduled July 3, 2026, as the date for the judgment after both the prosecution and defense presented their final arguments. Justice Audrey Kocuvie-Tay instructed both parties to file their final written submissions by June 17, 2026.
The accused face multiple charges, including facilitating unlicensed mining operations and transferring mineral rights without ministerial approval within the Samreboi concession area in the Western Region. Throughout the proceedings, Chairman Wontumi has remained on bail under conditions that include a GHS15 million bond, surrendering his passport, and restrictions on foreign travel.