Background: Wontumi’s Case and the Galamsey Allegations
The High Court in Accra has rescinded an arrest warrant issued for Bernard Antwi Boasiako, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), popularly known as Chairman Wontumi. He is facing charges related to alleged illegal mining activities, or galamsey, in the Western Region. The case has drawn national attention as authorities pursue accountability for alleged unlicensed mining operations under the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703), as amended by the Minerals and Mining (Amendment) Act, 2019 (Act 995).
Warrant Issuance: A Result of Absence in Court
The arrest warrant was issued after Wontumi reportedly absented himself from a court appearance on Tuesday, October 28, 2025. Justice Audrey Kocuvi-Tay presided over the session and subsequently adjourned the case, leading to the issuance of the warrant. The development underscored the seriousness with which the court treats non-attendance in proceedings involving high-profile political figures and corporate entities connected to mining.
Reasons for the Warrant’s Rescission
Minutes after the adjournment, Wontumi and his legal team filed an application to be re-heard in the court. His lawyer, Andy Appiah-Kubi, explained to the court that they were not present because they had not been informed of the start time of the trial. They believed the proceedings would commence at 10:00am, whereas the session began at 9:00am. The judge, however, noted that even though Tuesday’s start time was not advertised, it is expected that the defendant and his counsel should be in court when the court sitting begins at 9:00am.
In light of the miscommunication, Justice Kocuvi-Tay rescinded the arrest warrant. The court’s decision reflected an emphasis on fair process and the importance of accurate scheduling information in court administration. The ruling demonstrates that procedural missteps or communication gaps can influence how warrants are applied, especially in politically sensitive cases.
Earlier Bail and Conditions
Earlier in October 2025, Wontumi had already been granted bail in the sum of GH¢15 million with three sureties by the same Accra High Court. The conditions were stringent: two of the sureties were to be justified with landed properties within the court’s jurisdiction, and Wontumi was required to deposit his passport with the registrar. Additionally, his name was placed on a stop-list at all entry points to prevent international travel. The court also required the sureties to provide copies of their Ghana Cards and digital addresses to the registrar, and ordered Wontumi to report to the investigator on the first and third Mondays of every month.
Charges Overview: What Wontumi Faces
Chairman Wontumi and Akonta Mining Company Limited are charged with three counts of assigning mineral rights without the necessary approval and three counts of facilitating an unlicensed mining operation. The charges relate to alleged unauthorised mining activities at Samreboi in the Western Region, invoking provisions of Act 703 and its amended counterpart Act 995. The case is being pursued by the state, reflecting ongoing government concerns about illegal mining and its environmental and economic impact.
What This Means Going Forward
The rescission of the arrest warrant enables Wontumi to participate more fully in ongoing proceedings while maintaining bail conditions. It also highlights the importance of timely communication from court staff and legal teams to prevent unnecessary jeopardy in high-profile political cases. As the trial continues, observers will be watching to see how the court manages scheduling, witness testimony, and compliance with investigative directives.
Category and Context
Category: Ghana Legal Updates / Political Accountability
Related Developments
As this case progresses, attention will likely turn to the interplay between political influence and enforcement of mining regulations, as well as the broader fight against galamsey in Ghana.
