Chairman Wontumi to cooperate in investigations with EOCO after delayed release

Gloria Amoah 6 months ago

Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi and the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), has been released from the custody of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) after meeting his bail conditions.

His release was confirmed on the evening of Monday, June 2, by NPP General Secretary Justin Kodua in an interview with the media. He praised the efforts of NPP member and former Minister for Food and Agriculture, Dr Bryan Acheampong, who served as one of the sureties.

Chairman Wontumi was granted bail set at GH₵50 million with two sureties to be justified. He had been arrested on May 27 in connection with ongoing investigations into suspected fraud, money laundering, and causing financial loss to the state. According to Deputy Attorney-General Justice Srem-Sai, there is also a possible link to an international organised crime syndicate.

The Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) is reportedly compiling its own docket on the matter, separate from investigations being carried out by EOCO and the Criminal Investigations Department (CID).

Following his arrest, Wontumi’s legal team faced initial challenges in meeting the bail requirements, leading to his extended stay in detention. His lead counsel, Andy Appiah-Kubi, announced on Friday, May 30, that the requirements had been completed, largely due to Dr Acheampong’s support, stating that his documents “go over and above the value of money that is required.”

Despite this progress, Wontumi’s release was delayed by an unexpected legal twist, an application was filed to review the bail conditions. His lawyers had expressed hope that the issue would be resolved by Monday. The application was later withdrawn on June 2, clearing the way for his release.

Throughout his detention, the case attracted strong political attention. Members of Parliament, party executives, and NPP supporters organized protests, arguing that the bail conditions were excessive and politically driven.

The review application was initially scheduled for June 3 but was dropped the day before. With his release secured, Chairman Wontumi is now expected to cooperate fully with authorities as investigations continue.