Wontumi conviction represents justice to Ghanaians – Appiah-Danquah

The Director of Legal Affairs of the United Party, Andrew Appiah-Danquah, has said the conviction of NPP Ashanti Regional Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako represents justice for Ghanaians and reinforces the country’s rejection of illegal mining,

Speaking on TV3’s New Day on Monday, he argued that the High Court’s decision reflected justice delivered to the Republic, stressing that criminal prosecutions are undertaken on behalf of the Ghanaian people.

According to him, the judgment was not only about the individual convicted but also about protecting the national interest and demonstrating the country’s resolve against the destructive effects of illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.

“The judgment given, in my opinion, is justice granted to the people of Ghana because in every criminal trial, it is the Republic versus someone.”

Appiah-Danquah explained that in criminal proceedings, the Republic represents the people, making the conviction a victory for citizens seeking accountability through the judicial system.

“The persons seeking justice are the people, the Republic. And I am saying that this conviction represents justice to the people of Ghana.”

He further described the ruling as a strong message against environmental crimes, saying it reflected the nation’s collective condemnation of illegal mining and its devastating consequences.

“This conviction represents a clear statement made about our collective abhorrence to galamsey and what galamsey can do to us.”

While welcoming accountability, Appiah-Danquah stressed that it must always be pursued in accordance with the law.

“Yes certainly, we want accountability but we want accountability within the confines of the rule of law.”

His comments follow the conviction of Chairman Wontumi, who was sentenced by an Accra High Court to 20 years’ imprisonment with hard labour after being found guilty of multiple offences connected to illegal mining activities by his company, Akonta Mining Limited, in Samreboi in the Western Region.

The court also imposed a GH¢120,000 fine, with an additional three-year prison term in default of payment, while Akonta Mining Limited received separate financial penalties. Wontumi’s legal team has since announced plans to appeal both the conviction and the sentence.