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Tag: Bernard Antwi Boasiako

  • Court to rule on Wontumi’s no-case application on March 16

    Court to rule on Wontumi’s no-case application on March 16

    The no-case application filed by lawyers for Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, in his ongoing trial over alleged illegal mining at Samreboi, is set to be decided on Monday, March 16.


    The outcome of the court’s decision will determine the next step in the trial. If the court upholds the application, the charges against Wontumi will be dismissed and the trial will end.

    Should the court reject the submission, he will be required to present his defence, and the trial will continue. Chairman Wontumi has been accused of aiding individuals to mine without a proper licence at the Samreboi concession.


    This was made known during a court proceeding on Tuesday, October 7. Prosecutors have accused Chairman Wontumi, owner of Akonta Mining, and his co-director, Kwame Antwi, of illegally authorizing mining operations without the necessary licenses.


    The duo’s acts are criminal offenses under Ghana’s mining laws. According to prosecutors, one Henry Okum told investigators that he got permission from Chairman Wontumi to mine in the Samreboi area because he thought Wontumi owned the land.


    In Ghana, the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, is solely responsible for authorizing mining licenses.


    Authorities are currently pursuing Kwame Antwi. Meanwhile, on Monday, October 6, he was granted bail in the sum of GH¢1 million with two sureties.


    Chairman Wontumi made an appearance at the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service with his lawyer, Andy Appiah-Kubi, on Monday, October 6, after an order from the Attorney-General (A-G), Dr. Dominic Ayine.


    On Friday, October 3, Dr. Dominic Ayine threatened to arrest him if he failed to surrender himself to the CID. According to the Attorney-General, little progress has been made in investigating the allegations as key documents have been withheld by some officials of the previous administration.


    In April, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, revoked the company’s mining license for illegally mining within the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve in the Western North Region.


    The Minister explained that Akonta Mining has extended its illegal activities to the Aboi and Tano Nimiri Forest Reserves, despite possessing a valid license to operate outside of forest reserves. Reacting to the Minister’s statement, the company refuted claims leveled against its operations.


    It emphasized in a press statement, “We are not responsible for the activities in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve. That responsibility lies solely with the Forestry Commission and the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources.”


    The company added that such claims are a deliberate attempt by the Minister to tarnish the reputation of the company.


    “The decision by the Minister to publicly accuse us and call for the revocation of our license without any investigation or hearing is not just unfair, it is a clear breach of natural justice and a politically motivated act,” the company said.


    In May, the Special Police Anti-galamsey Taskforce from the National Police Headquarters apprehended 17 suspects in connection with illegal mining activities (galamsey) at Samreboi in the Western Region.


    The police nabbed the suspects, comprising seven Chinese nationals and 10 Ghanaians. The suspects were transported to Accra to assist with further investigations.


    The anti-galamsey task force is intensifying operations within the Aowin Tano and Tano Anwia areas near Enchi, focusing on identifying additional persons of interest and protecting the affected forest reserves.


    The Ghana Police Service announced that it remains resolute in its support for national efforts to combat illegal mining.

    There have been earlier anti-galamsey operations at Samreboi. Months ago, the police arrested 58 suspects, comprising 50 Ghanaians and eight Chinese, and retrieved 85 excavators and three bulldozers to halt galamsey operations at Samreboi, along the Tano River, Wassa Dunkwa, Tigarikrom, and surrounding communities in the Western Region.


    Similar anti-galamsey operations were carried out by various Regional Police Commands across the regions as follows: The Western Regional Police Command arrested 19 suspects and retrieved three excavators and three pump-action guns, among other exhibits.


    The Upper West Regional Police Command arrested seven Ghanaian suspects and retrieved 11 changfangs and three motorbikes, among other exhibits.


    The Eastern South Regional Police Command arrested 24 suspects, including one Burkinabe, and retrieved five excavators, three single-barrel guns, and one pump-action gun, among other exhibits.


    The Western Central Regional Police Command arrested 85 suspects, comprising 76 Ghanaians and nine Chinese, and also retrieved 11 excavators and other exhibits.


    The Eastern North Regional Police Command also arrested 15 suspects, including one Chinese, and retrieved four excavator control boards, nine monitors, and one pistol, among other exhibits. Meanwhile, the prosecution of suspected illegal miners is being pursued by the police.


    On May 20, the Koforidua Circuit Court B granted 14 suspected illegal miners bail, each in the sum of GHC350,000 with two sureties, with one to be justified with movable property.

    The suspects were arrested on May 15 for illegally mining at Akyem Muoso in the Eastern Region by the Eastern South Regional Police Command.


    At the time of the arrest, police retrieved a pump-action gun from one of the suspects, Zuberu Nuhoho, who failed to produce documentation for the weapon. Two excavator control boards were also retrieved from the mining site. The accused persons were arraigned before the Koforidua Circuit Court B on May 16.

  • We have not negotiated any plea deal with A-G – Wontumi’s lawyer

    We have not negotiated any plea deal with A-G – Wontumi’s lawyer

    The lawyer for the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has emphasized that the Office of the Attorney-General has not received any plea bargain proposal from their camp.

    Andy Appiah-Kubi’s clarification comes in response to a recent claim made by the Attorney-General during the Government Accountability Series on Wednesday, October 22. According to the A-G, his office has taken delivery of several plea bargain proposals from Wontumi.

    But Andy Appiah-Kubi has stated that there is no iota of truth in the Attorney-General’s claim, explaining that the case is still at a premature stage and therefore does not require any plea bargain discussions. Meanwhile, Chairman Wontumi’s counsel has noted that there is no evidence to support the galamsey charges levelled against their client.

    Speaking to the media on Friday, October 10, Enoch Afoakwa noted that Chairman Wontumi is unshaken in his insistence on innocence in the face of all galamsey charges. He added, “So certainly his position has not changed. He still maintains his innocence. Once he has pleaded not guilty to the various counts that he has been charged with, his presumption of innocence under Article 19(2c) triggers — and that means he is presumed innocent until proven.”

    “When he was arraigned, he pleaded not guilty to all the several counts of allegations that have been levelled against him. So certainly his position has not changed. He still maintains his innocence. Once he has pleaded not guilty to the various counts that he has been charged with, his presumption of innocence under Article 19(2c) triggers — and that means he is presumed innocent until proven.”

    Chairman Wontumi appeared before the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service on Monday, October 6, over the alleged involvement of Akonta Mining in illegal mining (galamsey) activities.

    A week ago, Chairman Wontumi, who is said to be the owner of Akonta Mining, appeared at the CID with his lawyer, Andy Appiah-Kubi, following an order from the Attorney-General (A-G), Dr. Dominic Ayine.

    Speaking to the media, Wontumi’s legal counsel, Andy Kwame Appiah-Kubi, revealed that his client had been charged with mining-related offences. “The charges are related to mining. Wontumi has been charged with mining without a license and other related offenses,” he disclosed.

    Chairman Wontumi was released from police custody after spending three nights in detention on Friday, October 10. His release followed the fulfillment of bail requirements totaling GHS25 million, imposed in connection with two separate illegal mining cases currently before the court.

    On October 7, he was unable to meet the bail conditions set by the Criminal Division of the High Court in Accra. In one of the cases, the court granted him GHS15 million bail with two sureties, while in the other, an additional GHS10 million bail was set, also with two sureties — one of whom must justify with landed property.

    The court further directed Wontumi to report to investigators once every week for the first month and prohibited him from traveling outside the country without explicit approval.

    The NPP regional chairman is facing several mining-related charges, including engaging in illegal mining activities and aiding environmental degradation within the Tano Nimire Forest Reserve.

    A bail of GHS1 million with two sureties has been granted to the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.

    On Friday, October 3, Dr. Ayine had threatened to arrest him if he failed to surrender to the CID. According to the Attorney-General, little progress had been made in investigating the allegations, as key documents were withheld by some officials of the previous administration.

    In April, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, revoked Akonta Mining’s license for illegally mining within the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve in the Western North Region. The Minister noted that the company had extended its illegal activities to both the Aboi and Tano Nimiri Forest Reserves, despite possessing a valid license to operate outside forest reserves.

    In response, the company refuted the claims, stating in a press release: “We are not responsible for the activities in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve. That responsibility lies solely with the Forestry Commission and the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources.”

    The company added that the accusations were “a deliberate attempt by the Minister to tarnish the reputation of the company. The decision by the Minister to publicly accuse us and call for the revocation of our license without any investigation or hearing is not just unfair; it is a clear breach of natural justice and a politically motivated act.”

    Chairman Wontumi’s expected reappearance comes amid mounting pressure on the Mahama-led administration to end illegal mining activities in the country. The menace continues to threaten Ghana’s water bodies, food crops, forest reserves, and energy infrastructure.

    In a meeting with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) on Friday, October 3, President John Dramani Mahama noted that he can only declare a state of emergency over the issue when his government’s advisors approve it.

    According to him, the advisors believe the country can overcome galamsey by adopting best practices in small-scale mining, including technologies that help neutralize or remove harmful chemicals from water bodies.

    President Mahama added that the country could eradicate the long-term problem if it deployed more troops and invested more resources in the fight. “While we are fighting the menace, I am also saying we should uptake technology in order to protect the environment. So yes, let’s fight illegal mining, but at the same time, let’s bring the new technology that will help us protect our environment.

    “Now with the elephant in the room, state of emergency, yes, I have the power to do it, but the president acts on the advice of the National Security Council. As of now, this moment, the National Security Council believes that we can win the fight against galamsey. Declaring a state of emergency… I want to assure you that the day they advise me otherwise, that boss, now we need a state of emergency, I won’t hesitate,” he said.

    Meanwhile, the Parliamentary Select Committee on Energy has issued a stern warning about the potential future repercussions of galamsey if the country fails to find a lasting solution. During a visit to the Anwomaso Thermal Power Station in Kumasi on Wednesday, October 1, Deputy Ranking Member Collins Adomako-Mensah revealed how Ghana’s power installations are being tampered with by illegal miners.

    According to him, electricity generation authorities—including the Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCo), the Bui Power Authority (BPA), WAPCO Gas Pipeline, and the Volta River Authority—risk shutting down due to attacks on their infrastructure.

    “When we were engaging the other participants, two things came up—one has to do with galamsey, and it is having a heavy, heavy toll on the energy sector, not just about water. GRIDCo complained about galamsey.

    “Their pylons, people are digging where they have a lot of their pylons. Yesterday we were at Bui, and the Bui water situation is deteriorating because of the galamsey situation surrounding their water bodies,” he said.

    In September, GRIDCo expressed grave concern over the encroachment on its transmission tower sites by galamsey operators, who are digging dangerously close to the foundations. Acting Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Engineering and Operations, Frank Otchere, stated that maintenance teams now face attacks when attempting to access certain areas.

    “Unfortunately, there are some areas that even when our maintenance teams go there, they get shot at. And some of them have had to run away,” he disclosed, adding that the situation has made it impossible for GRIDCo to operate in certain locations without security support.

    He added that galamseyers are weakening the towers, which are carefully engineered to withstand immense weight and pressure, and appealed for urgent assistance from national security agencies to protect transmission corridors and avert potential collapses.

    “This engagement aims to provide a platform for frank and constructive dialogue between the Government and civil society on the menace of illegal mining, with a view to harnessing collective expertise, perspectives, and solutions to address this national challenge,” the letter stated.

    Ongoing research by a forensic histopathologist and former Head of Pathology at KNUST and Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH), Prof. Dr. Paul Poku Sampene Ossei, has revealed alarming trends in rising cases of spontaneous abortions among pregnant women in Ghana.

    Approximately 500 cases have been recorded, linked to severe contamination of placentas and the presence of heavy metals, such as lead and mercury, resulting from galamsey activities. A spontaneous abortion is the unintentional expulsion of an embryo or fetus from the uterus before it is viable.

    Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, September 27, Prof. Sampene warned that galamsey is poisoning unborn babies and endangering mothers. “I have about 500 cases where women go to the hospital and abort their babies because of the concentration of these heavy metals in their placenta,” he disclosed.

    According to him, his research involved over 4,000 placentas examined from different regions across Ghana. The results showed dangerous levels of heavy metal contamination on both the maternal and fetal sides. “The placentas are all contaminated, polluted with heavy metals,” he said.

    The dangers extend beyond pregnancy losses. Another effect of galamsey is the excessive use of alum to address the increasing turbidity of water. Ghana Water Company Limited, the nation’s largest water supplier, has resorted to using higher concentrations of alum. Prof. Sampene cautioned that high levels of aluminium hydroxide pose serious health risks.

    “One of the consequences of excessive alum use is kidney disease, which is already on the rise. Of course, people are talking about turbidity, and then the Water Company is saying that they are using more alum.

    “Alum is aluminium hydroxide. When taken at higher concentrations over a long period, it can cause kidney problems, irritate the respiratory tract, and lead to neurological defects. All these things have been proven, and we have to be very careful about them now. This goes apart from the effects we are seeing around,” he explained.

    Among recent measures to protect water bodies from illegal miners is the deployment of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS). The Secretariat includes the Ghana Armed Forces, the Ghana Police Service, the Ghana Immigration Service, the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), the Narcotics Control Commission, and the National Security Secretariat.

    Addressing the security forces, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi-Buah, directed the team to ruthlessly counter galamsey operators as they are enemies of the state.

    “Any recalcitrant entering into these zones is not merely a trespasser. They are an enemy of the state. You are to be firm. You are to be resolute. You are to be ruthless. And please, take it from me, you will take no obstructionist instruction from any big man. Remember, the biggest man in Ghana is the President of the Republic, and he’s the one who has sent you,” Mr. Kofi-Buah noted.

  • Video: “God knows why He created crying and laughing” – Chairman Wontumi breaks silence on NPP’s defeat

    Video: “God knows why He created crying and laughing” – Chairman Wontumi breaks silence on NPP’s defeat

    Bernard Antwi Boasiako, also known as Chairman Wontumi, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has announced that the party’s leadership plans to investigate why they lost the December 7, 2024, presidential and parliamentary elections.

    At a press conference on December 9, 2024, Chairman Wontumi admitted that the party needed to reflect on its performance and promised to work with stakeholders, especially in the Ashanti region, to find out the reasons behind the party’s poor results.

    “If it is time to cry and you don’t cry, people will talk about it. And if it is time to laugh and you don’t laugh, people will talk about it, so God knows why He created crying and laughing,” he said.

    Admitting the party’s struggles, he added, “It didn’t go well for us. However, the NPP branch in the Ashanti region will soon convene a meeting with all regional leaders, including regional executives, MPs, parliamentary candidates, MMDCEs, constituency executives, and regional council members, to investigate what went wrong and share the findings with the public.”

    He assured supporters that the party’s focus now is on recovery.

    “For now, we are at a loss. What is important is to bounce back so that Ghana and Asanteman can thrive again” Chairman Wontumi added.

    On Monday, December 9, Electoral Commission Chairperson Jean Mensa announced that John Dramani Mahama won the 2024 general elections with 6,328,397 votes. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the NPP’s candidate, received 4,657,304 votes.

    In a historic win, Mahama’s party, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), also gained a majority in parliament.

    Sammy Gyamfi, the NDC’s National Communications Officer, stated that the party has won 185 parliamentary seats so far.

  • I can show you where power lies by changing NDC’s ballot position – Wontumi dares Owusu Bempah

    I can show you where power lies by changing NDC’s ballot position – Wontumi dares Owusu Bempah

    Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, also known as Chairman Wontumi, has sharply rebuked Rev. Isaac Owusu Bempah for predicting a victory for former President John Dramani Mahama in the December 7, 2024, presidential election.

    In an interview on Wontumi FM, Chairman Wontumi rejected the pastor’s prophecy, asserting that Rev. Owusu Bempah has no influence over the outcome of the upcoming election.

    Moreover, he claimed to have the “power and authority” to influence the arrangement of political parties on the final ballot, which was recently confirmed by the Electoral Commission.

    Chairman Wontumi went further, challenging Rev. Owusu Bempah to witness what real power and strength look like.

    “If he has one, I have ten,” Wontumi declared.

    “If he challenges me, I will move the NDC from the 8th position to the 6th. I’m telling you this to show you my strength and power. While we are embarking on a serious campaign, you’re playing games. Pharisees! I’m daring you… You’re not a man. I could say more, but I’ve forgiven you,” he said.

  • Prove yourself else we would come after you– Wontumi to govt appointees over NPP campaign

    Prove yourself else we would come after you– Wontumi to govt appointees over NPP campaign

    Bernard Antwi Boasiako, known as Chairman Wontumi, who serves as the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has issued a stern warning to government appointees regarding their lack of engagement in the party’s campaign for the upcoming 2024 elections.

    He emphasised that any appointee who fails to demonstrate their commitment to the party and the positions they hold will face consequences after the elections.

    Wontumi pointed out that even candidates like Kennedy Agyapong, who are running against Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, are actively campaigning on the ground.

    He insisted that appointees must set aside any complacency and actively participate in efforts to secure the party’s continued governance.

    “If you supported Dr. Bawumia during the primaries, you have not done anything. He wants to be president, and that is what you should support him to achieve. Kennedy Agyapong, who contested him, is campaigning and working to ensure that we win.

    They have had to prove themselves that they are party members.

    In 2016, we won the elections, so if you are an appointee and you don’t prove yourself, we will come after you. Prove yourself.

    We don’t speak English, but if you campaign well, everyone will know. Bawumia doesn’t have to say he is campaigning; Samira Bawumia doesn’t have to say she is campaigning; everyone will know,” he said.

  • “Mahama and his brother can’t say they have more money than me” – Wontumi

    “Mahama and his brother can’t say they have more money than me” – Wontumi

    Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, also known as Chairman Wontumi, has boldly claimed that he is wealthier than former President John Dramani Mahama and his brother, Ibrahim Mahama.

    He pointed out that he owns multiple companies that create jobs and generate income, alongside other revenue streams.

    Chairman Wontumi asserted with confidence that his net worth surpasses that of both Mahama and his brother Ibrahim.

    “I have more money than Mahama. His brother Ibrahim cannot claim to be wealthier than me. I started my journey a long time ago, and Ibrahim knows that I am a captain.

    I have held this position for over 20 years.

    My company and employees are evidence of my success, unlike him,” Chairman Wontumi said in Twi during an interview with Kumasi-based radio station Pure FM.

    The NPP stalwart owns multiple businesses in the country, providing jobs and income for numerous individuals.

    He also owns media outlets, including Wontumi TV in Kumasi, Movement TV in Accra, and Western Diamond in Takoradi.

  • Wontumi responds to ex-deputy Housing Minister’s economic criticisms

    Wontumi responds to ex-deputy Housing Minister’s economic criticisms

    Ashanti Regional Chairman of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, also known as ‘Chairman Wontumi,’ has addressed allegations made by Samuel Yaw Adusei, the former Deputy Minister of Works and Housing, about the state of the Ghanaian economy.

    Adusei, during his media engagements in the Ashanti Region, criticized the NPP government’s economic management, pointing out a debt-to-GDP ratio of 92% and an inflation rate of 54%.

    He also emphasized the achievements of former President John Mahama in the region.

    In response, Wontumi has taken to various media platforms to refute Adusei’s claims, defending the NPP’s economic performance and questioning Adusei’s credibility.

    Wontumi accused Adusei of dishonesty and attempting to mislead Ghanaians to garner sympathy for the NDC’s flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, and win favor with voters in the region.

    This exchange has ignited a heated debate about Ghana’s economic situation and the NPP government’s performance.

    With the 2024 elections approaching, this discussion is expected to become even more intense as both parties strive to present their arguments to the electorate.

  • Disgruntled Ashanti NPP executives want Wontumi out

    Disgruntled Ashanti NPP executives want Wontumi out

    Six executives of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Ashanti Region have filed a petition against Bernard Antwi Boasiako, also known as Wontumi, who currently serves as the regional chairman.

    The petition accuses Wontumi of various shortcomings, including a failure to convene important meetings, neglecting regional executives, and underutilizing party structures.

    These allegations suggest a lack of cohesion and effective leadership within the party.

    The petitioners are calling for urgent action to address these issues, proposing a postponement of the regional inauguration of the campaign team to allow for a thorough examination and resolution of the concerns raised.

    As the NPP faces internal challenges, there is a growing need for the party leadership to respond decisively and navigate the organisation back on track towards its objectives.

  • Wontumi cannot be stopped from becoming national chairman for NPP – Prophet

    Wontumi cannot be stopped from becoming national chairman for NPP – Prophet

    Leader of Nyametease Ampa Prayer Ministry in Kumasi, Prophet Kusi Appiah, has endorsed Bernard Antwi Boasiako, also known as Wontumi, as the future national chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

    During an interview on Wontumi TV/Radio in Kumasi, the prophet commended Wontumi for his steadfast support of NPP’s presidential candidate, Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia.

    He characterized Wontumi’s dedication as a righteous endeavor, paving the way for his eventual rise to the NPP’s national chairmanship.

    Prophet Kusi emphasized that Wontumi’s commitment aligns with divine timing, asserting that no amount of intimidation or falsehoods can alter his predetermined path to becoming the NPP’s national chairman.

    He stated, “God’s time is the best, and this is the right time. No amount of intimidation, lies, propaganda, or evil schemes can thwart that. If God decrees it, who can oppose it?”

    In addition to his prophecy regarding Wontumi, Prophet Kusi revealed a divine insight into the upcoming victory of Dr. Bawumia in the 2024 presidential elections.

    According to the prophet, Bawumia’s triumph is divinely orchestrated, showcasing his unique capability to lead the nation towards prosperity.

    “God has told me that Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia will assume the seat of the presidency and nothing can change that. God is the one bringing him because he is the only person who can change the fortunes of the nation and no one else,” he stated.

  • Kennedy Agyapong is an asset in the NPP, he is my senior brother – Wontumi

    Kennedy Agyapong is an asset in the NPP, he is my senior brother – Wontumi

    The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi, has underscored the importance of a prospective presidential candidate within the party, Kennedy Agyapong.

    Addressing the media, Chairman Wontumi emphasized that Kennedy Agyapong’s role within the party is crucial, highlighting his significant value as an asset.


    Wontumi believes that the party would experience a substantial setback if they are to lose Mr Agyapong, as his presence serves as a protective shield for the party’s interests.


    Additionally, he disclosed that he and Kennedy regularly exchange ideas and provide each other with advice, referring to their relationship as that of brothers.

    “Kennedy Agyapong and myself are the popular people, you can like it or not. I told Kennedy he will be second, I spoke to him today. He is my senior brother. Kennedy should have looked for running mates. Kennedy is an asset, I am telling you I mentioned his name before me,” he added.


    He made these remarks after the just ended Super Delegates Conference of the party.


    The party on Saturday, August, 26, 2023 delegates from the NPP gathered to cast their votes.

    The purpose was to narrow down the field of ten presidential aspirants to a final selection of five candidates.

    After the votes, the official results revealed a significant victory for vice president, Dr. Bawumia, positioning him favorably ahead of the main primary scheduled for November.

    Dr. Bawumia secured a resounding win by amassing 629 votes, securing the top position.

    In the same vein, Kennedy Agyapong secured the second position with a total of 132 votes, while Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen acquired 95 votes, placing him third.

    Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto followed with 36 votes, securing the fourth position.

    Both Mr. Boakye Agyarko and Francis Addai Nimoh shared the fifth spot with nine votes each.

    The remaining results were as follows: Kwabena Agyei Agyepong secured six votes, Joe Ghartey gained four votes, Kwadwo Poku received three votes, and Kofi Konadu Apraku obtained zero votes.

    The party is expected to its flagbearer for the upcoming 2024 general elections on November 4, 2023.

  • Kumawu by-election: Although we were hooted at, God still gave us victory – Wontumi

    Kumawu by-election: Although we were hooted at, God still gave us victory – Wontumi

    The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, the Sekyere Kumawu by-election was an arduous battle for the party, requiring significant effort before achieving a resounding and decisive victory.

    Addressing a news conference in Kumasi to mark one year anniversary of the election of the regional executives, Chairman Wontumi confessed that when they started the Kumawu by-election campaign, they didn’t have the support of the constituents.

    He added “We were hooted when we arrived in Kumawu to campaign because of the independent candidate and how 2020 general elections went in the constituency.”

    Chairman Wontumi commended the Kumawu electorates and New Patriotic Party members who joined the campaign team in Kumawu to support the party in day and night campaign.

    He assured the government will do its best to meet the infrastructural need to promote development in the Sekyere Kumawu district, adding that the NPP goverment is committed to addressing the current economic challenges the country is facing.

    He said, Ashanti Region is forever grateful to the Government for the massive infrastructural projects ongoing in the region, adding that no political party can compare its work in Ashanti to the ruling New Patriotic part’s government in the last 7years.

    “Currently, through the hard work of Nana Addo led government Kumasi can boast of International airport, asphalted roads, school infrastructural projects, retooling of Kumasi Technical University, proposed Suame inter Change, Kejetia Market phase two project, Agenda 111 , Boankra inland port among others.

    “As we are celebrating our one year anniversary as regional executives of the party we want to assure the general public that Ashanti regional executives of the NPP will ensure that the party wins election 2024.”

  • Haruna Iddrisu is prospective NDC flagbearer – Wontumi

    Haruna Iddrisu is prospective NDC flagbearer – Wontumi

    Ashanti Regional National Chairman for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has described MP for Tamale-South, Haruna Iddrisu, as the potential candidate for the NDC flag-bearer position.

    In an interview on Wontumi TV, Wontumi stated that Haruna Iddrisu will be the NDC’s flagbearer in years to come and that Okudzato Ablakwa, Member of Parliament for North Tongu also stands a chance of becoming his running mate if he plays his cards well.

    “See, Mahama will lose in the 2024 elections, so, Okudzato Ablakwa has to be humble so that when Haruna Iddrisu is becoming a flagbearer he will consider you as his running mate. But now you’re tarnishing your image. Mahama cannot come again. He has already been president and vice so that’s the end for him,” Wontumi said.

    The Ashanti Regional Chairman went on to say that if Haruna Iddrisu is elected as the NDC flagbearer, they will lose two consecutive elections before gaining a chance at the presidency.

    Meanwhile, the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) has set May 13, 2023, as a date to elect their flagbearer.

    Prospective candidates of the upcoming National Democratic Congress (NDC) Parliamentary Primaries will pay GH¢30,000 and GH¢500,000 as filing fees and registration forms respectively.

    The party will also elect parliamentary candidates for various constituencies across the country on the same day.

    The election of the Parliamentary Candidate shall be held at a venue within the Constituency as determined by the Constituency Executive Committee in consultation with the Regional Executive Committee (REC) of the respective region.

    This was announced by the NDC General Secretary, Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, at a press conference at the NDC headquarters in Accra on Wednesday, January 18, 2023.

    Source: Ghanaweb

  • Stop the ‘anti-Cathedral’ agenda and pursue your presidential ambition – Wontumi advises Ablakwa

    Stop the ‘anti-Cathedral’ agenda and pursue your presidential ambition – Wontumi advises Ablakwa

    The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has advised the Member of Parliament of North Tongu Constituency, Samuel Okudzato Ablakwa to cease spreading what he views to be misinformation about the National Cathedral and its board of trustees and rather pursue a presidential ambition.

    Speaking in an interview on Wontumi TV, Wontumi stated that Haruna Iddrisu will be the NDC’s flagbearer in a few years and that Ablakwa stands a chance of becoming his running mate if he plays his cards well.

    “See, Mahama will lose in the 2024 elections, so, Okudzato Ablakwa has to be humble so that when Haruna Iddrisu is becoming a flagbearer he will consider you as his running mate. But now you’re tarnishing your image. Mahama cannot come again. He has already been president and vice so that’s the end for him,” Wontumi said.

    Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has been a staunch advocate against the construction of the National Cathedral, on grounds that the timing, location and process are wrong.

    He made some allegations against Reverend Kusi Boateng, secretary to the Board of Trustees for the National Cathedral in a social media post dated January 16, 2023.

    In an explosive set of allegations which he describes as the Tsar Bomba of all scandals, Ablakwa claimed that Reverend Kusi Boateng holds multiple passports and identification cards with some bearing the name Kwabena Adu Gyamfi.

    “You will recall that in my earlier exposé of the scandalous GHS2.6million cash transfer from the National Cathedral Secretariat to JNS Talent Centre Limited, I pointed out that incorporation documents reveal that the three directors of JNS Talent Centre Limited are Johannes Eshun, Sheila Eshun and Kwabena Adu Gyamfi.

    “I also later revealed that Rev. Johannes Eshun is a branch pastor of National Cathedral Executive Council Member/Director, Rev. Victor Kusi-Boateng’s Power Chapel Worldwide.

    “Hitherto, the third director—Mr. Kwabena Adu Gyamfi has remained a mystery figure.

    “I am now able to reveal the true identity of this mystery director of JNS, Kwabena Adu Gyamfi.

    “Definitely, the code has finally been cracked and it shocks to the marrow!

    “Unimpeachable and incontrovertible evidence confirms that Mr. Kwabena Adu Gyamfi is the famous Rev. Victor Kusi Boateng who still serves on the National Cathedral Board as an Executive Council Member/Director.

    “For the avoidance of doubt, there is no distinct Kwabena Adu Gyamfi. Kwabena Adu Gyamfi is a criminal creation of Rev. Victor Kusi-Boateng. The two are therefore one and the same.

    “Rev. Victor Kusi-Boateng AKA Kwabena Adu Gyamfi thought he had outwitted every Ghanaian, particularly our authorities whom he dribbled for many years; but the day of reckoning is finally here.

    “From unassailable and irreproachable documents in my possession, Rev. Victor Kusi-Boateng AKA Kwabena Adu Gyamfi uses multiple passports and multiple identification cards with different names and different dates of birth as his special modus operandi,” he wrote on Facebook.

  • Wontumi slaps A Plus with another contempt suit

    Ashanti Regional Chairman of the ruling New Patriotic Party, Bernard Antwi Boasiako alias Wontumi has filed a lawsuit against musician and activist, Kwame Asare Obeng alias A Plus.

    A High Court recently found A Plus and three others guilty of contempt for holding media discussions following a defamation suit filed by Wontumi against socialite, Valentina Agyeiwaa alias Afia Schwarzenegger.

    However, in a fresh suit filed at the Tema High Court, Wontumi says A Plus in various social media posts made contemptuous statements against the presiding judge who found A Plus and the three others guilty of contempt.

    “That my counsel shall contend that the description of the judgment by the respondent as ridiculous and shameful is highly scandalous of this court. That by such statement and description, the respondent is saying that this Honourable Court’s judgement is foolish and stupid judgement. This is a direct insult to the trial judge,” portions of the writ sighted by GhanaWeb read.

    Wontumi emphasised that the action of A Plus smacks of disrespect to the court and “will lower the authority of the court in the eyes of right thinking members of society.”

    Wontumi in July this year sued Afia Schwarzenegger, Nana Ama McBrown, Kwame Obeng Asare aka A Plus, Emmanuel Barnes (Mr Logic) and Dr. Fadda Dickson Narh for contempt after a discussion about him on United Showbiz.

    The court after trial acquitted and discharged Fadda Dickson but found the remaining four guilty of contempt.

    The court also fined all four GH¢65,000.00 each while Afia Schwarzenegger was handed an extra 10-day jail term.

    Read full details of Wontumi’s fresh suit against A Plus below:

  • Distance yourself from Charles Bissue probe over conflict of interest – Kissi Agyebeng told

    Anti-corruption crusader, Vitus Azeem, has advised Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng, to distance himself from investigations on Charles Bissue’s alleged involvement in illegal small-scale mining activities (galamsey).

    According to him, this will be in the best interest of the case after it emerged that Kissi Agyebeng was one of the lawyers for Anas’ Tiger Eye P.I – the agency which did the ‘galamsey fraud’ documentary which captured Charles Bissue receiving bribes when he served as secretary to the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining (IMCIM).

    Speaking to Accra-based Starr FM, Vitus Azeem said Kissi Agyebeng can cede the investigations to his deputies in order to avoid or reduce the conflict-of-interest situation he now finds himself.

    “There is an issue there but then again you can say Kissi Agyebeng is not the Office of Special Prosecutor. He is the Special Prosecutor but he works with people. There is a deputy Special Prosecutor and other people, so what he can do is not to take up the matter himself personally but the office should be able to take up the matter,” he said.

    “It is a risk that he might be tempted to be biased or tempted to influence the investigation in a certain direction but once his attention has been drawn to it, that should make him to distance himself from the main investigation of the matter and leave it to his subordinates to do the work.

    “One thing about conflict of interest is, when you are aware of it you take steps to avoid it or minimize it such that it does not influence or affect whatever decisions that are going to be taken in connection with the matter.
    “I believe that the best thing is for him to come and open up and say no he is not going to be part of the investigation, he should stay away because of this relationship,” Vitus Azeem added.

    Kissi Agyebeng in a statement under his hand said the Office of the Special Prosecutor has launched investigations into suspected corruption and corruption-related offences in galamsey related matters.

    According to him, the investigation targets some officials at the Lands and Ministry as well as the dissolved Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining.

    “The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has commenced an investigation into suspected corruption and corruption-related offences in respect of illegal small-scale mining. The investigation targets some officials of the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and the Forestry Commission.

    “It also targets the activities and expenditure of the dissolved Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining (IMCIM), especially in respect of the seizure and management of excavators, machinery, road vehicles, and gold nuggets,” part of the statement issued on October 10 read.

    According to the OSP, the investigation also targets some individuals and private companies including the secretary of the IMCIM, Charles Bissue and Akonta Mining Company Limited belonging to the New Patriotic Party’s Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako alias Wontumi.

    “The investigation includes the active and ongoing inquiry into allegations of use of public office for profit against Charles Bissue, during his tenure as Secretary to the IMCIM, arising from an investigative documentary titled; ‘Galamsey Fraud Part I’, published by Tiger Eye P.I.

    “The investigation further targets the activities of Akonta Mining Limited and other companies; nationals of foreign countries allegedly involved in illegal mining; and allegations of corruption and corruption-related offences against some Municipal and District Chief Executives and political party officials,” the statement said.

    Charles Bissue who was caught on tape receiving a bribe in the exposé has consistently denied wrongdoing.

    Speaking to Accra-based Citi FM in 2021, Charles Bissue said he was set up by members of the Tiger Eye P.I

    He insists the money he was caught on video receiving was a donation from Chairman Wontumi to the party.

    “There was nothing like corruption. Somebody manufactured it because he wanted to go into illegal mining, which I stopped,” he said.

    He was cleared of all charges of corruption by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service in 2019 but Anas Aremeyaw Anas says the report was a “white-washing antic with no credibility” and had no input from Tiger Eye PI during the investigation.

    Following rigorous investigations, the CID came to the conclusion in a final report that Mr. Bissue did not violate the IMCIM’s established protocols in order to favour ORR Resource Enterprise, the organisation at the centre of the incident.

    Ghana has been waging war on the activities of illegal miners, however, it is widely believed that the fight has not yielded the desired results.

    The discoloured nature of water bodies as well as general environmental degradation has been used as a testament to the failed fight.

    Source: Ghanaweb

     

  • Baako, American Amb. must expose ‘powerful forces’ fueling galamsey – Apaak

    The Builsa South Member of Parliament, Clement Apaak, has urged the Veteran Journalist, Abdul Malik Kweku Baako Jnr and the American Ambassador to Ghana to expose the “powerful forces” fueling and profiting from illegal mining.

    According to him, failure of the duo to expose these persons makes them become accessories to the illegal activity.

    “Who are these powerful forces we are told are fueling illegal mining (galamsey). So powerful the state or its institutions and agencies are incapable of dealing with them?

    “Is it that the nation is powerless or those to take action have been compromised, rendering them powerless? Why are those who know the “powerful forces” fueling and profiting from illegal mining not telling us who these forces are? Mr. Apaak quizzed.

    He continued: “Kweko Baako, and recently the American Ambassador to Ghana, have referenced these powerful forces. They ought to expose them, if not they are accessories.”

    His comments come on the back of Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abdulai Jinapor directing the Forestry Commission to stop operations by Akonta Mining Limited in the Tano Nimiri Forest in the Western North region.

    In a statement, the Ministry noted that Akonta Mining Limited which is believed to belong to the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NPP, Bernard Antwi Boasiako a.k.a Chairman Wontumi has no mining right to operate in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve.

    The bold action of the Minister for Lands has been widely commended by stakeholders.

    However, the Builsa South lawmaker says the government must show commitment to the fight against the illegal mining menace and deal with offenders within the government circles.

    Meanwhile, the opposition NDC has also served notice that they will investigate and prosecute Chairman Wontumi, Ekow Awusi, and Charles Bissue among others for their involvement in galamsey in the country.

    According to the party, the President’s call to action on the illegal mining menace remains mere rhetoric if it is not backed by the appropriate action such as going after his offending appointees.

    “We demand the immediate prosecution of all government functionaries and NPP officials who have engaged themselves in illegal mining (galamsey) activities such as Charles Bissue, Chairman Wontumi, Andy Owusu, Ekow Awusi, Prof. Frimpomg Boateng among others. This will be the first step to redemption and serve as a deterrent to other people within your government and party. You need to send a clear signal to Ghanaians that anyone caught in “galamsey” will be dealt with without fear or favour, regardless of party colours,” the party said at a press conference Thursday.

    The National Communications officer of the Party Sammy Gyamfi who addressed the media also noted “We demand that all the so-called illegal mining companies like the Akonta Mining Limited which belongs to Chairman Wontumi and Heritage Imperial Mining Company which belongs to Mr. Donald Enstuah, a known financier of the NPP who have invaded forest reserves without any mining leases or permits, must be closed down and prosecuted. The assets of these companies must be confiscated and their owners surcharged with costs of the destruction of those forest reserves.

    “We demand that all security personnel complicit in illegal mining activities should be made to face internal investigations and discharged from the various services to serve as a deterrent to others”.

  • I will never do anything to hurt the NPP – Wontumi on ‘galamsey’ allegations

    Ashanti Regional Chairman of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, a.k.a. Chairman Wontumi, has denied allegations that he is involved in illegal small-scale mining (‘galamsey’).

    He said that he will never do anything to hurt his company or ruin the image of his party, the NPP, adomonline.com reports.

    The regional chairman added that if he wanted to do illegal mining, he will not go through the trouble to acquire the mining licenses he has.

    “I won’t do things to hurt my company; I won’t do things to hurt this party (NPP). In 2017, I could have easily moved to the site to work but I waited untill I got the license before beginning my operations.

    “If someone wants to do galamsey, would the person apply for a lease? You can’t go to the police if you want to engage in a criminal activity,” he said.

    Wontumi added that his only intention in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve was to drive out ‘galamseyers’ as he awaits the permission of the lands minister to start mining.

    “It is like a man who has gone in for a woman and visited her family to perform the knocking ceremony. If another guy wants to rape the lady, you have expressed interest in, won’t you protect your lady? I have the gazette and this is law and if galamsey operators want to destroy my site, shouldn’t I protect the place?” he quizzed.

    Meanwhile, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor, has directed the Forestry Commission to suspend the operations of Akonta Mining Company in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve of the Amenfi West Municipal Assembly.

    According to a statement issued by the Public Affairs office of the Ministry on Friday, September 30, 2022, the company owned by the ruling NPP Chairman for Ashanti Region has been engaging in mining activities in the forest without a permit.

    “The attention of the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has been drawn to publications about certain operations by Akonta Mining Limited in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve in the Amenfi West Municipality in the Western Region.

    “Records available to the Ministry show that while Akonta Mining Ltd has a mining lease to undertake mining operations in some parts of Samreboi, outside the Forest Reserve, the company has no mineral right to undertake any mining operations in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve,” the statement said.

    According to the Ministry, while Akonta Mining Company had applied for a permit to mine in the said forest reserve, the Minister had yet to give approval to any such application hence rendering the activities of the firm in the said forest reserve illegal.

     

  • Wontumi, Samertex PRO clash over rights to Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve

    The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, has clashed with the Public Relations Officer of the timber processing firm, Samertex, Vincent Torgah, over rights to be operating in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve.

    The clash comes after the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor, directed the Forestry Commission to cease the operations of Akonta Mining Company in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve of the Amenfi West Municipal Assembly.

    According to a statement issued by the Public Affairs office of the Ministry on Friday, September 30, 2022, the company owned by the ruling NPP Chairman for Ashanti Region, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, alias Wontumi, has been engaging in mining activities in the forest without a permit.

    “The attention of the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has been drawn to publications about certain operations by Akonta Mining Limited in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve in the Amenfi West Municipality in the Western Region.

    “Records available to the Ministry show that while Akonta Mining Ltd has a mining lease to undertake mining operations in some parts of Samreboi, outside the Forest Reserve, the company has no mineral right to undertake any mining operations in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve,” the statement said.

    According to the Ministry, while Akonta Mining Company had applied for a permit to mine in the said forest reserve, the Minister had yet to give approval to any such application hence rendering the activities of the firm in the said forest reserve illegal.

    Reaction to this in an Asempa interview monitored by GhanaWeb, on Tuesday (October 4), Wontumi insisted that he has the right to some parts of the Nimiri Forest and he is only awaiting a mining lease from the ministry to start the mining.

    He said that he has documents that show that he has rights to some parts of the forest reserve and that there is even a case that is yet to be determined by the court on who has the rights to the dispute parts of the forest.

    “If Samertex says they have the right to the disputed parts of the forest, they should provide their evidence like I have.

    “Akonta Mining is not mining in the forest; we only entered the forest about two years ago but Samertex knows that there have been illegal miners in the forest since 2013. Why did not report these galamseyers to the forestry commission?” he said in Twi.

    He added that his company together with some security only went into the forest to sack illegal miners who were already in the forest but they were attacked by officers of Samertex which led to the destruction of one of his vehicles.

    But, the PRO of Samertex, Vincent Torgah, who joined in the conversation, said that the claims of the NPP regional chairman were false.

    According to him, the Forestry Commission of Ghana which gives leases to forests in the country has on some occasions informed Wontumi’s Akonta Mining that it has no right to be mining in the forest.

    “The Ministry has told Akonta Mining on a number of occasions that it has no right to be mining in the forest.

    “But anytime we go to the forest with officials of the Forestry Commission, we see that the mining is ongoing. The security of Akonta sometimes refuse to let us leave the forest and we have to be rescued,” he said.

  • ‘I have the necessary documentation to operate in the mining sector’ – Chairman Wontumi

    Bernard Antwi Boasiako, a businessman, has refuted claims that his firm, Akonta Mining Limited, has been involved in illicit mining operations in the nation.

    This comes after the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources ordered the mining company to stop working in the Tano Nimiri Forest due to claims that it was doing so unlawfully, or “galamsey.”

    But in response to the news, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) said his organization had been given all the authorization it needed to operate in the region.

    “I am appealing to them to use the law. They should do their investigations and we should let the law work. I have a large-scale company which Akonta mining is under…All the required documents I have them in my possession and I will make all available,” Chairman Wontumi said on his private television station Wontumi TV on Monday, October 3.

    Touching on claims he was involved in galamsey-ridden activities, Chairman Wontumi insisted, “I want to tell the public that I am not into galamsey.”

    Meanwhile, the Lands Ministry in a statement issued on September 30, 2022, said although Akonta Mining Limited has mining lease to undertake mining operations in some parts of Samreboi, outside the Forest Reserve, “the company has no mineral right to undertake any mining operations in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve”.

    “Our records show that Akonta Mining Ltd, on August 25, 2022, applied for a Mining Lease to undertake mining operations in the said Forest Reserve. By a Ministerial Directive, all reconnaissance, prospecting and/or exploratory activities in Forest Reserves in the country are suspended, except in exceptional circumstances.

    “Although this directive does not affect mining in Forest Reserves, Akonta Mining Limited’s application has not been determined. Accordingly, any alleged activity being undertaken by the company in the Forest Reserve is illegal”, the statement further said.

  • Why was Wontumi’s mining license extended by 13 years? – MP asks

    The Member of Parliament (MP) for Tamale Central, Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, has accused the Minerals Commission of Ghana of breaking the country’s laws by extending the mining license of NPP’s Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, by 13 years.

    According to him, the alleged extension given to Bernard Antwi Boasiako, a.k.a. Wontumi, is illegal because the country’s laws only allow for a three years maximum extension for mining licenses.

    The MP, who made these remarks in a TV3 interview monitored by GhanaWeb, questioned the rationale behind Wontumi’s 13 years license extension.

    “The issue about Wontumi is not about him engaging in mining for a very long time or not. It is about the criminal extension of his license renewal, 13 years. When the laws are very clear (that the) maximum (renewal should be) 3 years. Why did they make it 13 years? That is the issue,” he said

    Murtala also bemoaned the failure of the state to arrest and investigate Wontumi for his alleged involvement in illegal mining (‘galamsey’).

    “You have the same Wontumi, who sat on national television and showcased gold bars worth millions of dollars. Did anybody invite him? Did the National Security or the BNI (Bureau of National Investigation) invite him?” he said.

    He added that if the government was serious about the fight against ‘galamsey’, it would have arrested Wontumi by now.

    Meanwhile, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor, has directed the Forestry Commission to cease the operations of Akonta Mining Company in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve of the Amenfi West Municipal Assembly.

    According to a statement issued by the Public Affairs office of the Ministry on Friday, September 30, 2022, the company owned by the ruling NPP Chairman for Ashanti Region, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, alias Wontumi, has been engaging in mining activities in the forest without a permit.

    “The attention of the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has been drawn to publications about certain operations by Akonta Mining Limited in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve in the Amenfi West Municipality in the Western Region.

    “Records available to the Ministry show that while Akonta Mining Ltd has a mining lease to undertake mining operations in some parts of Samreboi, outside the Forest Reserve, the company has no mineral right to undertake any mining operations in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve,” the statement said.

    According to the Ministry, while Akonta Mining Company had applied for a permit to mine in the said forest reserve, the Minister had yet to give approval to any such application hence rendering the activities of the firm in the said forest reserve illegal.

  • 2 sustain gunshot wounds at mining firm in Samreboi

    Two persons have sustained gunshot wounds at Samreboi in the Western Region.

    This happened after a section of the youth reportedly prevented personnel of Akonta Mining Limited from sending more mining equipment into the Tano Nimri Forest reserve.

    The company is said to have been mining in the reserve despite a declaration by government that it has not granted any entry permit into the forest reserve.

    2 sustain gunshot wounds at mining firm in Samreboi

    Two of the vehicles transporting the mining equipment have also been burnt while some vehicles belonging to timber firm Samartex had their windscreens smashed.

    The duo who sustained the wounds have been admitted to the Samartex hospital at Samereboi.

    2 sustain gunshot wounds at mining firm in Samreboi

    JoyNews investigations recently revealed ongoing destruction to the Tano Nimri Forest Reserve despite the government’s declaration it has not given any entry permit into the forest.

    The forest, spanning about 12 football fields, has already been destroyed by mining linked to Akonta Mining Limited.

    The mine is owned by NPP’s Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako popularly called Chairman Wontumi.

    Source:myjoyonline.com

  • Kennedy Agyapong accuses 15 NPP chairmen of bad faith

    The New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament for Assin Central, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, has stated that all the 15 regional chairmen of the party who openly declared their support for John Boadu have been disgraced.

    “All of them have been embarrassed. If it were somewhere, all of the chairmen would resign,” he stated.

    Speaking an interview with journalists at the Accra Sports Stadium after the declaration of Justin Kodua Frimpong as General Secretary of the NPP, the maverick MP urged the 15 regional chairmen to learn their lesson.

     

    “If you are a party chairman and you stab your people underground there, you cannot change their minds. That is the decision we have taken,” he stated.

    The NPP held its national delegates conference on the theme: “Holding together, working together.”

    The immediate past General Secretary, Mr Boadu, who was widely tipped to be retained, got 2,524 votes while his main challenger, Mr Frimpong, garnered 2,837 to emerge victorious. The other competitors, Iddrisu Musah had 104; Frederick Opare-Ansah had 50 votes and Ramseyer Agyemang-Prempeh polled eight votes.

    Another contender, Charles Bissue, who pulled out of the race a few days to the conference, got 12 votes.

    Disunity

    Mr Agyapong said the action of the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the party, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, to whip all the regional chairmen to support the candidature of Mr Boadu could cause disunity in the party.

    “Wontumi should cool down; he does not own the party,” he stated.

    Mr Agyapong said he had learnt his lesson that the disunity in the “party stems from the fact that leaders of the party openly support candidates. This time, I decided that to get unity in the party, I am not going to openly support anybody.”

    Winners

    He said delegates would always vote for any candidate they believed was good.

    “If you are good and the people believe in your work, they will vote for you. But for the first time in the history of the NPP as a political party, you see 15 regional chairmen raising their hands because they have been whipped. They have been disgraced. That is all I can tell you,” he stated.

    He said that action by the 15 regional chairmen, led by Chairman Wontumi, ahead of the party’s national delegates conference smacked of bad faith in the party.

    Source: Graphic Online