Judiciary will decide Chairman Wontumi case fairly – Deputy NPA CEO

Dr. Dramani Bukari, Deputy Chief Executive of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), has assured Ghanaians that Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi, will have his case decided fairly.

He emphasized that the courts will act independently and rule strictly according to the law, without regard to political affiliation.

“The judiciary’s duty is to uphold justice without bias, regardless of a person’s political influence or status,” Dr. Bukari stated. He added that the rule of law must guide every case, including those involving high-profile figures like Chairman Wontumi.

The NPA Deputy CEO cautioned against politicizing legal matters, noting that such actions risk undermining public trust in the justice system. He urged citizens and political actors to respect judicial independence and allow due process to run its course.

Dr. Bukari stressed that all citizens should be treated equally before the law, reinforcing principles of fairness, transparency, and accountability. This is especially important in efforts to tackle illegal mining, or galamsey, which continues to have severe environmental and economic impacts in Ghana.

Chairman Wontumi’s case has drawn national attention due to its connection with the government’s wider campaign against illegal mining activities. Dr. Bukari’s remarks underscore that verdicts will be based on evidence and legal merit rather than political considerations.

He called on all stakeholders to remain patient and trust that justice will prevail. According to Dr. Bukari, reinforcing public confidence in Ghanaian institutions is essential, particularly at a time when strong governance and adherence to the rule of law are critical for national progress.

Chairman Wontumi and Akonta Mining are facing three counts connected to mining-related offences. The charges, according to prosecutors, involve operating a mining concession without the required license and other violations under Ghana’s Minerals and Mining Act.

The NPP stalwart had earlier reported to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) on Monday, October 6, 2025, where he was granted bail. He was released on a GH¢1 million bail with two sureties after several hours of questioning.

Speaking to journalists after the CID engagement, his lawyer and Member of Parliament for Asante Akim North, Andy Appiah-Kubi, confirmed that the case stems from alleged breaches of mining regulations. “The charges are related to mining. Wontumi has been charged with mining without a license and other related offences,” he disclosed.

He added that his client remained calm and cooperative throughout the process, expressing confidence that the upcoming court hearing would be handled fairly. “Chairman has been well composed and is expecting that tomorrow when we go to court, all of us will help the court in taking a decision that is judicious,” Mr. Appiah-Kubi stated.

The case has generated national attention due to Wontumi’s political stature and the company’s name, Akonta Mining, which has previously been linked to controversies surrounding mining activities in forest reserves. The Minerals Commission and the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources have both stressed that the law will take its full course, regardless of political affiliations.