Wontumi’s True Condition in Prison Finally Exposed

Pressure is reportedly mounting on President John Dramani Mahama to consider exercising his constitutional powers to grant clemency to convicted NPP Ashanti Regional Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi.

Lawyer Maurice Ampaw has become one of those calling for presidential intervention, citing reports that Wontumi’s health has seriously deteriorated during his time in prison.

The request comes several weeks after the Accra High Court handed Wontumi a 20-year custodial sentence with hard labour following his conviction over illegal mining-related offences involving Akonta Mining Company Limited.

The former NPP regional chairman was convicted on six counts, including the unlawful assignment of mineral rights without the necessary approval and facilitating mining activities without a licence. In addition to the prison term, the court imposed a financial penalty and stipulated another custodial sentence in the event of non-payment.

Ampaw, who has consistently commented on the case, had earlier expressed opposition to the conviction and warned against treating Wontumi’s imprisonment as something to celebrate. His latest appeal has revived the debate about whether the President should intervene on humanitarian or constitutional grounds.

The conviction has become a politically sensitive issue, attracting reactions from both NDC and NPP supporters. While Wontumi’s backers have continued to raise questions about the prosecution and punishment, the case remains within the established legal framework.

Wontumi’s lawyers are also reportedly weighing further legal challenges to the High Court’s ruling. They may pursue an appeal at the Court of Appeal and potentially take the case to the Supreme Court if necessary.

At the same time, reports about the politician’s alleged serious health condition remain unverified. There has been no confirmed announcement that President Mahama has granted or authorised a pardon, sentence reduction or any other form of clemency.

Wontumi therefore remains in custody while his legal options and the wider political discussions surrounding his conviction continue to attract public attention.