The Minority in Ghana’s parliament has vehemently protested the arrest and detention of Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP). The Minority describes the circumstances surrounding his arrest and subsequent bail conditions as excessive and politically motivated.
Chairman Wontumi was arrested by the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) on May 27, 2025, after reporting to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for questioning. He was later granted bail set at GH¢50 million with two sureties, both to be justified. However, he remained in custody after failing to meet the stringent bail conditions.
The Minority, led by Alexander Afenyo-Markin, staged a walkout from Parliament on May 29, 2025, chanting lines from the national anthem in protest. They then marched to EOCO’s headquarters in Accra, demanding a review of the bail conditions and the immediate release of Chairman Wontumi.
Speaking to the media, Afenyo-Markin criticized the bail conditions as “excessive and unjustifiable,” questioning the rationale behind requiring properties worth GH¢50 million as surety. He argued that Wontumi had cooperated fully with law enforcement and that the bail terms were being used as a punitive measure.
Former Information Minister and MP for Ofoase/Ayirebi, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, echoed these sentiments, stating that the situation reflects a misuse of state power to achieve political ends. He warned that such actions set a dangerous precedent and could intimidate political actors.
The NPP’s National Organizer, Henry Nana Boakye, also raised concerns about Wontumi’s whereabouts, claiming EOCO officials were unable to confirm his location. He called on President John Mahama to ensure fairness and adherence to the rule of law.
Meanwhile, the Deputy Attorney-General, Justice Srem-Sai, revealed that Wontumi is under investigation for alleged serious criminal offenses, including fraud, causing financial loss to the state, and money laundering. He stated that the investigations are part of a wider international organized crime probe, justifying EOCO’s caution in releasing the suspect.
The Minority has vowed to continue protesting until the bail conditions are reviewed and Wontumi is released. They argue that the current situation undermines the principles of justice and could erode public confidence in the legal system.
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the government and EOCO will respond to the mounting pressure from the Minority and the public.
