The High Court in Accra has fixed November 4, 2026, for ruling on the bail pending appeal application filed by the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.
The court set the date today, Thursday, October 15, after hearing arguments from his lawyers and the State.
The Application
Chairman Wontumi is praying the High Court to grant him bail pending the determination of his appeal against his conviction by a lower court.
His lawyers argued that the appeal has strong prospects of success, that he is not a flight risk, has a fixed place of abode, and will abide by all bail conditions.
The Attorney-General’s Department opposed the application, arguing that bail pending appeal is not automatic and that the applicant has not shown exceptional or unusual circumstances to warrant it.
The judge has set November 4 to deliver the ruling.
Background Of The Case
Chairman Wontumi, who is also a businessman, miner and media owner – owner of Wontumi FM and TV in Kumasi and Accra – has in recent months been at the centre of major legal and political controversy.
He was first picked up and investigated by state investigative bodies, including the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) and other security agencies, over allegations relating to illegal mining activities, financial transactions and other related matters.
His arrest and subsequent prosecution sparked political tension, with the NPP accusing the current NDC administration of political witch-hunting, while government insists it is a matter of accountability and rule of law.
Chairman Wontumi was subsequently charged, tried and convicted by the trial court, leading to a custodial sentence. He immediately instructed his lawyers to file an appeal challenging both conviction and sentence.
Under Ghanaian law, a person convicted can apply for bail pending appeal where he can demonstrate that the appeal is arguable, that he will not abscond, and that there are exceptional circumstances.
It is this application that the High Court will rule on November 4.
If granted, Chairman Wontumi will be released from custody on bail conditions to be determined by the court, while his substantive appeal is heard. If refused, he will remain in custody until the appeal is determined.
The November 4 ruling is highly anticipated by both supporters of the NPP and political watchers.
By Sampson Kumag Ifeetwube Elvis
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