Accra: Bernard Antwi Boasiako, widely known as Wontumi, has filed a motion seeking bail pending an appeal against his 20-year prison sentence. Boasiako, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), submitted the motion at the Accra High Court, where the application is scheduled to be heard on August 19, 2026, according to court documents.
According to Ghana News Agency, Boasiako was convicted and sentenced on July 20, 2026, by Justice Audrey Kocuvie-Tay for facilitating illegal mining activities on a Samreboi concession in the Western Region. Boasiako's legal team argues that the trial was flawed in law and claims that the appeal raises substantial constitutional questions. These questions pertain to Article 19(1) of the Constitution and the legality of Sections 14(1), 59, and 99(2) of the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703), suggesting that the trial judge overstepped her jurisdiction.
The appeal disputes the judge's attribution of criminal liability to Boasiako, despite the independent legal status of Akonta Mining Company Limited, the third applicant. Boasiako, through his lawyers, asserted his strong ties within the jurisdiction, including business, family, and community connections, and argued that he poses no flight risk.
Boasiako emphasized the need for bail to work closely with his legal counsel, claiming that his current circumstances hinder legal consultations. He assured the Court of his commitment not to interfere with justice and expressed willingness to adhere to any bail conditions imposed. Boasiako further contended that the State would not suffer any prejudice should he be granted bail.