Wontumi’s Temporary Freedom In Limbo

Bernard Antwi Boasiako, widely known as Wontumi, faces an uncertain future as a High Court in Accra prepares to rule on granting him a temporary release from Nsawam Medium Security Prison. Convicted of mining-related offenses in July 2026, Wontumi's conviction was handed down by Justice Audrey Kocuvie-Tay. His legal team has filed an appeal, citing 19 grounds to overturn the decision.

On the day of the hearing, Wontumi appeared in court confidently, dressed in tailored white clothing and surrounded by supporters from the New Patriotic Party.

The case has drawn significant attention, with prominent political figures attending the hearing, including Minority Chief Whip Frank Annoh-Dompreh, First Vice Chairman Kojo Bamba, and former Member of Parliament Anthony Karbo. Their support for Wontumi underscores the significance of the case.

In his motion for bail pending appeal, Wontumi's lead counsel, Samuel Atta-Akyea, relied on a previous Court of Appeal decision that states a prisoner can be released on bail while an appeal is pending if exceptional circumstances exist. Atta-Akyea urged the court to consider these exceptional circumstances, stating that they have a high likelihood of success. He emphasized that Wontumi's temporary release would not only aid his legal team in handling the appeal but also in two other ongoing trials.

Defending the prosecution, Deputy Attorney General Dr. Justice Srem-Sai argued that the grounds for bail pending appeal are not exceptional and do not constitute grounds for granting release. He emphasized that dissatisfaction with the conviction is not a valid reason for granting bail. Dr. Srem-Sai also contended that Wontumi is a flight risk, given that he is currently facing trial in two other criminal cases with substantial imprisonment terms that would be served consecutively.

He argued that the mere possibility of facing further imprisonment is not sufficient grounds to justify bail.