Chairman Wontumi, whose real name is Bernard Antwi Boasiako, is a prominent Ghanaian businessman and politician. He serves as the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), one of Ghana’s two major political parties. His influence extends beyond politics, as he is also known for his ventures in mining, construction, media, and other sectors. His outspoken personality and flamboyant lifestyle have made him a household name, especially in the Ashanti Region, which is considered the NPP’s stronghold.
Allegations and Investigations
Chairman Wontumi is currently under investigation for several serious allegations. These include his involvement in illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey, which has been a significant environmental concern in Ghana. Authorities accuse him of operating without proper licenses, polluting water bodies, and entering forest reserves unlawfully through his mining company.
In addition to the environmental accusations, the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) is investigating him for causing financial loss to the state. This separate issue came to light when EOCO arrested him on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, following an earlier police invitation by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID). His arrest followed a failed attempt by security officers to search his residence in Kumasi due to resistance from his private security, which led him to voluntarily report to the police.
Interrogation and Hospitalization
While Chairman Wontumi was being interrogated at EOCO headquarters, he reportedly fell ill and was rushed to the hospital. His lawyer, Andy Appiah Kubi, confirmed that the interrogation was still ongoing when his client collapsed. He assured the public that if Wontumi’s health permits, he will return to continue the questioning. However, he also mentioned that another writ of summons had been received from Exim Bank concerning a civil case, separate from the criminal allegations.
Controversial Bail Conditions
EOCO granted Chairman Wontumi a bail of GH¢50 million with two sureties to be justified. According to his lawyer, this was police enquiry bail meant to temporarily release him while investigations continued. However, Wontumi remained in custody for at least one night after failing to meet the full bail requirements.
This bail condition has sparked significant controversy. The Minority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, strongly criticized the GH¢50 million bail as excessive and punitive. He argued that EOCO’s actions were aimed at punishing Wontumi rather than ensuring justice. During a session in Parliament, Afenyo-Markin demanded that EOCO revoke the bail conditions, threatening that the Minority MPs would boycott all proceedings if the demand was not met.
Protests and Political Tension
Following Wontumi’s arrest, a large number of NPP supporters, including senior party officials, gathered at EOCO headquarters to protest his detention. Tensions escalated as some supporters clashed with security forces, burned tyres, and chanted slogans demanding his release. High-profile party figures such as Henry Nana Boakye and Titus Glover were present during the standoff.
The protest reached Parliament, where Minority MPs staged a dramatic walkout in solidarity with Chairman Wontumi. They sang Ghana’s national anthem while exiting the chamber and announced that they would march to the EOCO office in protest. This public show of defiance highlighted the political sensitivity of the arrest.
Public and Institutional Reactions
Various civil society groups and political commentators have weighed in on the situation. The Global Security for Africa Research and Good Governance (GLOSARGG), represented by its Executive Secretary Francis Ahovi, urged security agencies to maintain professionalism and vigilance amidst rising political tensions. Ahovi warned that the case could be used by some political actors to provoke unrest and destabilize the country.
Meanwhile, many Ghanaians remain divided over the issue. Some believe the investigations are long overdue and necessary to combat corruption and illegal mining, while others view the arrest as politically motivated, aimed at weakening a powerful opposition figure ahead of the 2024 elections.
Chairman Wontumi’s case continues to dominate national headlines due to the high-profile nature of the accusations and his powerful position within the NPP. As investigations unfold, many Ghanaians await to see whether the rule of law will prevail, or if political affiliations will overshadow justice. The situation has undoubtedly intensified political tensions in the country, making the coming weeks critical for Ghana’s legal and democratic institutions.
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