Wontumi seeks bail pending appeal

Bernard Antwi Boasiako, also known as Wontumi, is the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party. He recently filed a motion seeking bail pending an appeal against his 20-year prison sentence. The Accra High Court will hear the application on August 19, 2026. In July 2026, Boasiako was convicted and sentenced to 20 years of hard labor for facilitating illegal mining activities on a Samreboi concession in the Western Region.

Boasiako's legal team argued that the trial was flawed in law. The appeal centers on constitutional interpretation questions and the constitutionality of certain sections of the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006. Boasiako maintains that he is not a flight risk and has strong ties to the jurisdiction. He believes his current circumstances hinder his ability to work closely with his lawyer.

Boasiako is willing to comply with any conditions imposed by the court and does not foresee any prejudice to the state if granted bail.