Wontumi’s Lawyer Accuses Prosecution of Using State Powers to Frustrate His Client in GEXIM Case

According to a report by TV3 Ghana on Tuesday October 13, 2026, Samuel Atta Akyea, lead counsel for New Patriotic Party (NPP) Ashanti Regional Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has accused the prosecution of using state powers to frustrate his client in an ongoing legal case involving the Ghana Export-Import Bank (GEXIM).

According to the lawyer, the matter between Wontumi and the bank is civil in nature and should not be treated as a criminal case. He argues that the disagreement arose from a transaction between the two parties and should be resolved through the appropriate civil legal process.

Mr Atta Akyea believes the prosecution is taking a position that unfairly puts his client under pressure, despite what he considers to be the true nature of the dispute.

He maintains that the issues surrounding the transaction should be addressed by Wontumi and the Ghana Export-Import Bank rather than pursued as a criminal matter by the state.

The lawyer’s comments have brought renewed attention to the legal proceedings involving the NPP Ashanti Regional Chairman, who has been facing charges in connection with the case.

The dispute has also raised questions about the distinction between civil disagreements and criminal offences, particularly in cases involving financial transactions and public institutions.

Civil cases generally involve disputes over rights, obligations or agreements between parties, while criminal cases concern alleged offences punishable under the law. However, whether a particular transaction gives rise to criminal liability depends on the facts and evidence presented before the court.

Mr Atta Akyea’s position reflects the defence team’s argument that the matter should be handled as a dispute between the parties involved.

The prosecution, however, will have the opportunity to present its case through the established legal process.

The court will ultimately determine the issues before it based on the applicable law and the evidence presented by both sides.

The proceedings remain significant because of Wontumi’s political position and the allegations surrounding the transaction with the Ghana Export-Import Bank.

If you liked this story, please follow or tip the author to help them write more!

ProNews feedback-opera-news-app@opera.com