Court to hear Wontumi’s bail application today

The Accra High Court is scheduled to hear a bail application filed by former New Patriotic Party (NPP) Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, on today, October 15, 2026.

The application seeks his release from custody while he appeals his conviction and 20-year prison sentence for illegal mining-related offences involving a concession at Samreboi in the Western Region.

The matter was initially set for hearing on August 19 but was adjourned after Mr Boasiako and his lead lawyer, Samuel Atta Akyea, failed to attend court.

The parties were later informed by the court clerk that the presiding judge would not be available for the rest of that week, leading to the rescheduling of the hearing.

At Thursday’s sitting, the defence is expected to outline its reasons for requesting bail while the appeal against the conviction and sentence remains pending.

The application was submitted in August as the former NPP regional chairman sought to secure his release during the appeal process.

The Attorney-General, however, is opposing the request, citing concerns that Mr Boasiako could abscond if granted bail.

The court will consider the submissions from the defence and the prosecution before deciding whether to grant bail pending the determination of the appeal.

Also read:

• Wontumi pleads not guilty to amended charges in EXIM Bank case

• “Wontumi doesn’t like where he is”– Palgrave Boakye