Chairman Wontumi in Deep Water as Akonta Mining GM offers to Testify Against him

The legal battle involving Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has taken a dramatic turn as the Attorney-General has withdrawn charges against Edward Akuoko, the 4th accused and General Manager of Akonta Mining, after he agreed to testify for the State.

In a formal notice filed at the High Court in Accra, Criminal Division, and signed by Deputy Attorney-General Dr. Justice Srem-Sai, the State announced that it was discontinuing prosecution against Akuoko under Section 59 of the Criminal and Other Offences (Procedure) Act, 1960 (Act 30).

“The Honourable Attorney-General has, pursuant to Section 59 of the Criminal and other Offences (Procedure) Act, 1960 (Act 30), withdrawn Edward Akuoko, the 4th Accused Person herein, from prosecution in respect of all the charges brought against him in this case,” the notice dated November 3, 2025, read.

Thus, Akuoko has offered to cooperate fully and provide testimony expected to implicate key figures in the case, including Chairman Wontumi and others charged over alleged unlawful mining activities linked to Akonta Mining Company Limited.

Background of the Case

Akonta Mining Company Limited; Chairman Wontumi (2nd accused); Kwame Antwi, who is currently at large (3rd accused); and Kwadwo Owusu Bempah, also at large (5th accused), are facing prosecution for alleged illegal mining activities believed to have been carried out in forest reserve areas.

The case has drawn national interest due to the political profile of Chairman Wontumi and long-standing public concern over illegal mining — popularly known as galamsey — and its devastating effects on Ghana’s environment.

The withdrawal of charges against Akuoko is seen as a significant move by the State to strengthen its case, with legal analysts suggesting it could place the embattled regional chairman under increasing legal and political pressure.

Next Steps

The High Court is expected to reconvene in the tomorrow as the prosecution prepares to present Akuoko as a key witness.

The development may reshape the dynamics of the trial, as attention shifts to how Akuoko’s testimony will influence proceedings and impact the remaining accused persons.