Imprisonment to Bail: Wontumi’s Dramatic U-Turn at Nsawam Prison
Imprisonment to Bail: Wontumi's Dramatic U-Turn at Nsawam Prison
Wontumi Seeks Bail Pending Appeal at High Court
The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Wontumi, has filed an application at the High Court seeking bail pending the determination of his appeal against his conviction. The application, filed on August 5, 2026, states that the first appellant is currently incarcerated at the Nsawam Medium Security Prisons.
Wontumi's Lawyer Invokes Relevant Laws
The Notice of Motion, filed by Wontumi's lawyer, Samuel Atta Akyea of Zoe, Akyea & Co., invokes Section 96(1) of the Criminal and Other Offences (Procedure) Act, 1960 (Act 30) and Section 33(1) of the Courts Act, 1993 (Act 459). The application prays the court to admit Wontumi to bail pending the hearing and determination of his appeal, relying on the grounds set out in an accompanying affidavit.
A Glimpse into Wontumi's Conviction
Wontumi, along with Akonta Mining Limited and a third accused person, Kwame Antwi, was prosecuted over illegal mining activities on the company's concession at Samreboi in the Western Region. He was sentenced to 20 years' imprisonment after Criminal Court 4 Division of the High Court found him guilty on all six charges brought against him.
The Application Proceeds
The application has been scheduled to be moved before the High Court, Criminal Division '4' in Accra on August 19, 2026. Copies of the application have been served on the Office of the Attorney-General as the respondent, as well as the Director of the Nsawam Medium Security Prisons. The High Court is expected to determine whether Wontumi should be granted bail while his appeal against the conviction is pending.
A Test of Justice
Wontumi's application is a testament to the complexities of Ghana's justice system. As the country grapples with issues of corruption and the rule of law, this case will be closely watched by observers both within and outside the country. The outcome of this application will have significant implications for Wontumi's future, as well as for the broader conversation around accountability in Ghana.
What's Next for Wontumi
The High Court's decision on Wontumi's bail application will be a significant development in this ongoing saga. If granted bail, Wontumi will be free to pursue his appeal from outside the walls of Nsawam Prison. However, if the application is denied, Wontumi will remain behind bars, serving out his 20-year sentence. The world will be watching as the High Court deliberates on this critical matter.
Source: Joy Online
