Lawyer Andy Appiah Kubi, legal representative of Bernard Antwi Bosiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has stated he was unaware that minority Members of Parliament (MPs) would stage a protest in solidarity with his client at the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) headquarters.
In an interview with JoyNews’ The Probe monitored by Kumasimail, Lawyer Kubi categorically denied any prior knowledge or involvement in the MPs’ decision to leave Parliament and demonstrate outside EOCO’s offices.
When asked if he was informed about the protest, Lawyer Kubi responded, “No, I’m not a member of Parliament, so I wouldn’t have been privy to the discussions in Parliament.”
He emphasized that the protest was an initiative solely by parliamentarians, adding, “Why would they tell me? It was an action of parliamentarians, and the discussions happened in the presence of Parliament. Honestly, on the day, I did not pass anywhere close to Parliament.”
Despite being the sole legal representative for Chairman Wontumi, Kubi clarified the limits of his role stating “I am responsible for his legal representation, not anything beyond that. My focus is on representing him within the legal realm to defend him as per my instructions”
“My client has not given me any further instructions beyond my legal representation. So I wouldn’t be privy to, join, propose, or participate in any other activity apart from legal representation,” he added.
Again, when asked whether he was surprised by the MPs’ decision to leave Parliament and march to EOCO, Lawyer Kubi explained, “The constitution guarantees freedom of demonstration, freedom of association, and other freedoms. So at any time, when people decide to act in unison, whether in protest or support, they are acting within their rights. Anyone who supports their cause has the freedom to join.”
Pressed further about his feelings on the protest, he said, “I wouldn’t be surprised any day or time when people want to demonstrate in support or against something.”
When questioned if he approved of the MPs’ action, Kubi remained neutral.
“My feelings are not necessary here. Anyone who has the capacity to affect the fortunes of my client, I should be happy about that. Whether their actions positively impact my client’s pursuit of justice is not for me to judge,” he stressed.
Lawyer Appiah Kubi noted that the demonstration was a show of commitment to Chairman Wontumi’s cause and could serve as a morale booster.
“If my client realizes that people are demonstrating in his support, he should be happy. It also serves as a form of communication to those who may not have heard about the case. It could even increase his support base.”
He added that the MPs exercised their constitutional rights and that the protest likely encouraged his client.
“His mood did change for the better. Even in situations like football matches, when you hear supporters cheering, it lifts your spirits. Chairman Wontumi knew about the protest from the news and from me.”
Reflecting on how his client felt upon learning of the solidarity demonstration, Lawyer Kubi said, “Put yourself in his shoes, in custody and hearing that people are demonstrating in support. How would you feel? At least you know someone is out there.”
Source: www.kumasimail.com /Kwadwo Owusu
