The Ashanti Regional branch of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has strongly condemned the arrest and continued detention of its Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, describing the process as a violation of due process and democratic principles.
Addressing a press conference in Kumasi on Wednesday, the Regional Secretary of the party, Kwame Adom Appiah, speaking on behalf of the regional executives, expressed disappointment with the manner in which the arrest was conducted and the subsequent treatment of Wontumi by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO).
According to Adom Appiah, the party initially chose not to speak publicly on the matter, trusting that legal procedures would be followed.
However, recent developments have led them to believe otherwise.“Inhumane” Arrest and Denial of Legal Access
Appiah recounted that on Friday, May 23, 2025, a group of armed men stormed Wontumi’s residence in Atasomanso, subjecting neighbors and journalists to harsh treatment for using their mobile phones to take photos. He added that Wontumi, being a law-abiding citizen, honored an invitation from the CID on Monday, May 26, and was asked to return the next day, which he complied with.
However, following this engagement with the CID, Wontumi was allegedly “ambushed” and arrested by EOCO operatives.
The NPP questioned the rationale behind EOCO’s intervention, asking what investigations the CID could not undertake that required EOCO’s involvement.
“The apparent show of power runs counter to good democratic practices,” Appiah stated, adding that the suspect’s legal team has frequently been denied access to him, making it difficult for family, friends, and party officials to determine his whereabouts.
Furthermore, he said Wontumi, who is reportedly unwell, has been denied access to medical care from his preferred healthcare provider.
Call for Due Process and Rule of Law
Appiah emphasized that the current handling of the case undermines the democratic principles to which Ghanaians have subscribed, especially the rule of law. Citing legal luminaries Lord Hardwicke and Lord Denning, he stressed the importance of maintaining a justice system that is transparent, fair, and timely.
He posed a series of rhetorical questions to underscore the party’s grievances. He asked Are we keeping the stream of justice pure andclear, are the inquiries fairly being conducted right now are the arrest, searches, and detention of Wontumi properly madeis EOCO ready to eliminate unnecessary delays in giving justice to Wontumi?
“Our answers to all the above questions are NO,” he declared.
Appeal for Reasonable Bail and National Intervention
The Ashanti Regional NPP called on EOCO to exercise its discretion by reconsidering the GH₵50 million bail terms imposed on Wontumi, arguing that fair bail conditions are essential for the suspect to prepare his defense and access medical care. They referenced Article 14(4) of the 1992 Constitution, which guarantees individual liberties and the right to bail under reasonable terms.
The party also appealed to national leaders, including the government, religious leaders, and the National Peace Council, to intervene and ensure EOCO acts in accordance with best practices.
Gratitude and Faith in Innocence
Kwame Adom Appiah expressed gratitude to various party officials and sympathizers who have shown support for Wontumi, including Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Hon. Kennedy Agyapong, Members of Parliament, and NPP executives across regions.
Reaffirming their belief in Wontumi’s innocence, the Ashanti Regional NPP stated that fair bail conditions would allow him to defend himself in court, where they believe he will ultimately be vindicated.
Source :www.kumasimail.com
