TIG Post

Tag: Chairman Wontumi

  • 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.

  • Two mining cases of Chairman Wontumi adjourned to Nov. 12 and Dec. 4

    Two mining cases of Chairman Wontumi adjourned to Nov. 12 and Dec. 4

    Court proceedings on two cases involving the New Patriotic Party’s Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, have been postponed.

    The first case, which concerns allegations that he permitted mining activities on his concession at Samreboi without the required approval, proceedings were adjourned to November 12.

    While the second case, in which Wontumi he is accused of engaging in mining operations within the Tano Nimire Forest Reserve without authorization, was also postponed to December 4 because the presiding judge is currently on leave.

    The adjournment became necessary on the back of a request from the prosecution to enable them to serve the defense with necessary disclosures.

    Chairman Wontumi, has been accused of aiding individuals to mine without proper licence at 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. About months ago, the Police arrested 58 suspects comprising 50 Ghanaians and 8 Chinese, and retrieved 85 excavators and 3 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 3 excavators and 3 pump-action guns, among other exhibits.

    The Upper West Regional Police Command arrested 7 Ghanaian suspects and retrieved 11 changfangs and 3 motorbikes, among other exhibits.

    The Eastern South Regional Police Command Region arrested 24 suspects, including one Burkinabe, and retrieved 5 excavators, 3 single-barrel guns, and 1 pump-action gun, among other exhibits.

    The Western Central Regional Police Command arrested 85 suspects, comprising 76 Ghanaians and 9 Chinese, and also retrieved 11 excavators and other exhibits.

    The Eastern North Regional Police Command also arrested 15 suspects, including one Chinese, and retrieved 4 excavator control boards, 9 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.

  • Court decision to arrest Chairman Wontumi reversed

    Court decision to arrest Chairman Wontumi reversed

    The High Court in Accra has reversed it decision to arrest  Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, who is facing trial by the state for allegedly engaging in illegal mining activities(galamsey).

    According to his lawyer, Andy Appiah-Kubi, their absence was due to misinformation regarding the time trials were expected to start as  they thought the case was going to start at 10:00 am, but it started at 9:00 am.

    A report by TV3 also said, the judge indicated that even though the time for Tuesday’s trial was not advertised, he expected Wontumi and his lawyer to be in court at 9:00 am, because that is the time the court sitting starts.

    To this end, the decision to arrest Chairman Wontumi was reversed on the basis that, he and his lawyer were inadequately informed on when they were expected to show up.

    Chairman Wontumi, who is the owner of Akonta Mining Company Limited in the Western Region, is standing trial for allegedly aiding individuals to conduct unlicensed mining operations at the Samreboi concession.

    He is on bail of GHC15 million with three sureties granted by the High Court in Accra. During his first court appearance, Justice Audrey Kocuvie-Tay directed that two out of the three guarantors must justify their bail with ownership of land or property within the court’s jurisdiction.

    Prosecutors have accused Chairman Wontumi, who doubles as the owner of Akonta Mining, and his co-director, Kwame Antwi, of illegally authorizing mining operations without the necessary licenses. The case relates to activities that took place in 2024. Meanwhile, Wontumi has pleaded not guilty to the charges.

    Deputy Attorney-General, Dr. Srem-Sai, has asked the court to impose stringent bail conditions to prevent him from fleeing.

    “Gold mining is a capital-intensive business, and by their own admission, the accused is a man of substance. It is common knowledge that persons of substance are often greater flight risks,” Dr. Srem-Sai argued.

    On Monday, October 6, Chairman Wontumi appeared at the CID with his lawyer, Andy Appiah-Kubi, following an order from the Attorney-General (A-G), Dr. Dominic Ayine. 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 charged.

  • Bench warrant issued for Chairman Wontumi’s arrest after court no-show

    Bench warrant issued for Chairman Wontumi’s arrest after court no-show

    The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, is making headlines again after failing to appear for a scheduled court proceeding without permission.

    According to reports, Chairman Wontumi, alongside his team of lawyers, was expected to appear before the court today, Tuesday, October 28, at 9:40 a.m.

    However, they made no appearance in court despite being duly informed of the sitting. In response, the presiding judge, Justice Audrey Kocuvi-Tay, issued a bench warrant for his arrest, arguing that Chairman Wontumi and his team offered “no excuse of any sort to the court.”

    Chairman Wontumi, who is the owner of Akonta Mining Company Limited in the Western Region, is standing trial for allegedly aiding individuals to conduct unlicensed mining operations at the Samreboi concession.

    He is on bail of GHC15 million with three sureties granted by the High Court in Accra. During his first court appearance, Justice Audrey Kocuvie-Tay directed that two out of the three guarantors must justify their bail with ownership of land or property within the court’s jurisdiction.

    Prosecutors have accused Chairman Wontumi, who doubles as the owner of Akonta Mining, and his co-director, Kwame Antwi, of illegally authorizing mining operations without the necessary licenses. The case relates to activities that took place in 2024. Meanwhile, Wontumi has pleaded not guilty to the charges.

    Deputy Attorney-General, Dr. Srem-Sai, has asked the court to impose stringent bail conditions to prevent him from fleeing.

    “Gold mining is a capital-intensive business, and by their own admission, the accused is a man of substance. It is common knowledge that persons of substance are often greater flight risks,” Dr. Srem-Sai argued.

    On Monday, October 6, Chairman Wontumi appeared at the CID with his lawyer, Andy Appiah-Kubi, following an order from the Attorney-General (A-G), Dr. Dominic Ayine. 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 charged.

  • Wontumi released; meets GHS25m bail conditions, spends 3 night in police custody

    Wontumi released; meets GHS25m bail conditions, spends 3 night in police custody

    Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi, has been released from police custody after spending three nights in detention.

    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.

    This development comes after Chairman Wontumi appeared before the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service on Monday, October 6, over 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.

    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 ch

  • Wontumi detained overnight for failing to satisfy bail conditions

    Wontumi detained overnight for failing to satisfy bail conditions

    The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has been detained by the High Court in Accra for failing to meet his bail conditions.

    Wontumi spent the night in police custody as efforts to fulfill the bail requirements by the High Court in Accra proved unsuccessful.

    On Tuesday, October 9, the High Court in Accra granted him bail of GHC15 million with three sureties. Presiding judge, Justice Audrey Kocuvie-Tay, directed that out of the three guarantors, two must justify their bail with ownership of land or property within the court’s jurisdiction.


    Prosecutors have accused Chairman Wontumi, who doubles as the owner of Akonta Mining, and his co-director, Kwame Antwi, of illegally authorizing mining operations without the necessary licenses.

    The case relates to activities that took place in 2024. Meanwhile, Wontumi pleaded not guilty to the charges. But the Deputy Attorney General, Dr. Srem-Sai, prayed the court to impose stringent bail conditions, arguing that such measures were necessary to prevent Wontumi from fleeing.


    “Gold mining is a capital-intensive business, and by their own admission, the accused is a man of substance. It is common knowledge that persons of substance are often greater flight risks,” Dr. Srem-Sai argued.


    On Monday, October 6, Chairman Wontumi appeared at the CID with his lawyer, Andy Appiah-Kubi, following an order from the Attorney General (A-G), Dr. Dominic Ayine. 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 illegal small-scale mining activities, also known as galamsey.

    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 charged.

  • National Service to begin on Nov. 3 as registration officially begins today

    National Service to begin on Nov. 3 as registration officially begins today

    The National Service Authority (NSA) has announced the commencement of registration for the 2025/2026 service year, beginning today, Wednesday, October 8, 2025. The registration exercise will close on Wednesday, October 15, 2025.

    In a statement, the Authority explained that the new registration process follows President John Mahama’s directive to overhaul the previous Central Service Management Platform (CSMP), which was found unsatisfactory after a Technical and Forensic Audit.

    The NSA said it has since developed a more secure and efficient digital system designed to promote transparency, strengthen data protection, and allow real-time verification of applicants’ information.

    It noted that all registrations completed in June 2025 have been rendered invalid due to data integrity concerns, including inconsistencies in age and identity details. As such, all prospective National Service Personnel are required to re-register on the new platform.

    The Authority assured that individuals who legitimately registered during the earlier exercise will receive full refunds of their service fees.

    “All previous registrations from June 2025 have been declared null and void. Every prospective service personnel must re-register on the new platform,” the statement emphasized.

    Meanwhile, the NSA announced that all National Service Personnel are expected to report to their assigned postings on Saturday, November 1, 2025, ahead of the official start of the service year on Monday, November 3, 2025.

    Months ago, the National Service Authority (NSA) revealed that 3,500 graduates risk not participating in the 2025/2026 national service programme over invalid accreditation by 22 tertiary institutions.

    According to the Authority in a press release dated Tuesday, June 17, it received 135,990 submissions for this year from 122 tertiary institutions; however, “3,597 of these submissions, representing graduates from 22 institutions, have not been processed, as those institutions are currently not accredited and remain unknown to the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC).”

    The Authority has therefore issued a 30-day ultimatum to the tertiary institutions that are yet to renew their licenses.

    NSA cautioned that unaccredited tertiary institutions that miss the deadline to regularize their status will negatively impact their students’ chances of participating in the 2025/26 national service.

    “This is part of broad efforts to clean up the national service system and safeguard public resources,” the NSA said in a statement.

    The NSA is yet to give details of the tertiary institutions that currently possess expired accreditation.

    The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission has been working to ensure that all tertiary institutions in the country meet the required accreditation standards.

    In 2024, it announced a temporary halt to the processing of new accreditation applications for academic programs in all public universities, including technical universities.

    Meanwhile, PIN codes for 132,393 prospective national service personnel ahead of the 2025/2026 service year have been released.

    The NSA indicated that this year’s intake dropped by an average of 26% compared to the past three years, with a 36% decline in 2022/2023.

    908 PIN codes for private applicants are currently awaiting final verification from the related institutions to be released.

    In a related event, Deputy Director of the National Service Scheme (NSS), Fuseini Donkor, has explained that personnel under the scheme will undergo a military orientation programme, not full military training.

    This is due to a newly introduced module by the incumbent government aimed at building discipline and preparedness among Ghanaian youth.

    In March this year, the National Service Authority (NSA) deployed the first batch of trained teachers for the 2025/2026 national service year.

    A total of 13,700 graduates from accredited teacher training colleges will begin their service in various educational institutions across the country.

    In an announcement, the NSA directed all assigned personnel to verify their placements and complete necessary documentation. “All deployed Service Personnel MUST log onto the Authority’s website at www.nsw.gov.gh to check their placements and print their appointment letters for endorsement from their designated User Agencies,” the statement read.

    The newly deployed teachers are expected to begin service on April 2, 2025, while the regional validation process will take place from March 26 to April 11, 2025, at all NSA regional centers nationwide.

    Reaffirming the mandatory nature of national service, the Authority cited the governing law: “Per the National Service Authority (Act 1119) 2024, every Ghanaian citizen who has attained the age of eighteen (18) years or more and has completed an Accredited Tertiary Institution is MANDATED to undertake national service to the State.”

  • Court grants Wontumi GHC15m bail over illegal mining charges

    Court grants Wontumi GHC15m bail over illegal mining charges

    Ashanti Regional New Patriotic Party (NPP) Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has been granted bail of GHC15 million with three sureties by the High Court in Accra.

    Presiding judge, Justice Audrey Kocuvie-Tay, directed that out of the three guarantors, two must justify their bail with ownership of land or property within the court’s jurisdiction.

    Chairman Wontumi, owner of Akonta Mining Company Limited in the Western Region, is standing trial for allegedly aiding individuals to conduct mining operations without the proper licence at the Samreboi concession.

    Prosecutors have accused Chairman Wontumi, who doubles as the owner of Akonta Mining, and his co-director, Kwame Antwi, of illegally authorizing mining operations without the necessary licenses. The case relates to activities that took place in 2024.

    Meanwhile, Wontumi pleaded not guilty to the charges.
    But Deputy Attorney General, Dr. Srem-Sai, has asked the court to impose stringent bail conditions to prevent him from fleeing.


    “Gold mining is a capital-intensive business, and by their own admission, the accused is a man of substance. It is common knowledge that persons of substance are often greater flight risks,” Dr. Srem-Sai argued.


    On Monday, October 6, Chairman Wontumi appeared at the CID with his lawyer, Andy Appiah-Kubi, following an order from the Attorney General (A-G), Dr. Dominic Ayine.

    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 charged.

  • Akonta Mining: Chairman Wontumi granted GHS1m bail

    Akonta Mining: Chairman Wontumi granted GHS1m bail

    A bail of GH₵1 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.

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

    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. He is expected to appear in court on Tuesday, October 7.

    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.

    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 charged.

  • Akonta Mining: Wontumi to appear before court on Tuesday over galamsey allegations

    Akonta Mining: Wontumi to appear before court on Tuesday over galamsey allegations

    The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, is set to appear before the court on Tuesday, October 7, over alleged involvement of Akonta Mining in illegal mining activities (galamsey).

    He has been granted bail in the sum of GH¢1 million.

    Chairman Wontumi, who is said to be the owner of Akonta Mining, 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 emphasised 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.


    Chairman Wontumi’s expected reappearance comes at a time when there is mounting pressure on the Mahama-led administration to end illegal mining activities in the country.


    The menace continues to threaten not only Ghana’s waterbodies, food crops and forest reserves but also the country’s 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, government 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 believes that the country can eradicate the long-term canker if it deploys more troops as well as invests more resources in the fight. He concluded that the battle seems to be a long one, but his administration is committed to fighting it.


    “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 the 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, and as at 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 added.


    Meanwhile, the Parliamentary Select Committee on Energy has given a stern warning about the potential future repercussions of galamsey if the country fails to find a lasting solution to the menace.


    During a visit to the Anwomaso Thermal Power Station in Kumasi on Wednesday, October 1, Deputy Ranking Member, Collins Adomako-Mensah, startling revelation about how Ghana’s power installations are being tampered with by illegal miners.


    According to him, the country’s 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 over 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 added, “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.”


    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, made this known at GRIDCo headquarters in Tema on Thursday, September 25.


    Mr. Otchere stated that maintenance teams now face attacks when they attempt 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 the galamseyers are weakening the towers, which are carefully engineered to withstand immense weight and pressure. He appealed for urgent assistance from national security agencies to protect transmission corridors and avert the potential collapse of towers.


    “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 the rising cases of spontaneous abortions among pregnant women in Ghana.


    Approximately five hundred cases of spontaneous abortions (miscarriages) have been recorded in research that links these cases 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 the lives of 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 foetal sides. “The placentas are all contaminated, polluted with heavy metals,” he said.


    The dangers of these metals 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.


    According to him, one of the consequences of excessive alum use is kidney disease, which is already on the rise. He warned that if left unchecked, “Ghana will be in big trouble.”


    “Of course, people are talking about turbidity, and then the Water Company is saying that they are using more alum. Alum is aluminium hydroxide, that is the full name, aluminium hydroxide, and this aluminium hydroxide, when taken for a long period, in fact at higher concentration, has a lot of what you call health effects. One of them is kidney problems.


    “When you use alum, that’s aluminium hydroxide, which is used to purify the water, especially when they are using that concentration, which I believe is so high, it’s going to cause kidney problems, it’s going to irritate the respiratory tract, and it’s going to cause what we call neurological defects.


    “All these things have been proven, have been studied, and proven to be important, and we have to be very careful about them now. This goes apart from the effects that we are seeing around,” he explained.


    Among the recent measures taken 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 Amarh Kofi-Buah, directed the team to ruthlessly counter the activities of galamsey operators as they are the 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 charged.

  • MASLOC retrieves state-owned cars from Chairman Wontumi for failing to meet loan conditions

    MASLOC retrieves state-owned cars from Chairman Wontumi for failing to meet loan conditions

    A collaboration between the Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC) and the National Security operatives have resulted in the seizure of three out of five government vehicles which were in possession of the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.


    This information was disclosed by the Deputy Women Organizer for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Abigail Elorm Mensah who also doubles as the CEO of MASLOC on Wednesday, September 10.

    Speaking to Citi News, the retrieval of vehicles from Wontumi is in line with a broader initiative to recover government loans and vehicles from defaulters.

    She noted that Chairman Wontumi adds up to one of the many individuals who receive loans and vehicles from the institutions but have refused to fulfill the terms of the agreement.


    According to the CEO of MASLOC, her outfit is working tirelessly to ensure Chairman Wontumi returns the two other government-owned cars.

    “I have gone with National Security operatives to the house of the Chairman of the NPP in Ashanti Region, Chairman Wontumi. Three cars. In fact, the cars were five. We’ve retrieved three. I have collected all from his house. We are still chasing him for the two.

    “He has to pay for them. What we do is that once I seize the cars, the agreement we have with you is that you would have to repay whatever has accrued, and we release the cars to you,” she said.

    The CEO of MASLOC mentioned that, “Between February and now, I have recovered roughly about GHS8 million, but that is not even up to 10% of what is in debt. We have in debt over GHS430m”.

    MASLOC is an apex body responsible for implementing the Government of Ghana’s microfinance programmes targeted at reducing poverty. It was established in 2006 to grant loans to start-ups and small businesses to help them grow and expand as part of its core functions.

    In the meantime, three radio stations owned by Chairman Wontumi and six others have been directed by the National Communications Authority (NCA) to halt operations.

    Their suspension was enforced under Regulation 54 of the Electronic Communications Regulations, 2011 (L.I. 1991), which prevents the operation without a valid Certificate of Compliance.

    In a press release by the National Communications Authority (NCA), the Authority explained that the affected radio stations, 95.9 FM in Accra, 101.3 FM in Kumasi, and 101.3 FM in Takoradi under the Wontumi Multimedia Company Limited, breached broadcasting regulations.

    According to the Authority, it served a 30-day grace period to the affected radio stations following an order by President John Dramani Mahama; however, the stations failed to adhere to the directive.

    “The National Communications Authority (NCA) has suspended the operations of nine (9) radio stations for various infractions. This action follows the expiration of the 30-day grace period granted by the President of the Republic of Ghana, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama for defaulting stations to remedy the violation of the laws and regulations governing FM radio broadcasting in Ghana

    “Six (6) stations failed, refused, and neglected to comply with the regulatory amnesty by taking no action. Consequently, the operations of the following stations have been suspended; Donplus Multimedia Limited; Dreams Ghana Media Limited, Jam Multimedia Limited, Jewel Group Limited, Unique Gateway Communication Limited and Wontumi Multimedia Company Limited.

    “Whereas many of the violating stations took steps to remedy breaches during the amnesty period, three (3) stations failed to remedy some of the breaches including unauthorised use of Studio-to-Transmitter Link (STL) frequencies and unapproved transmitter locations. Consequently, the operations of the following stations have been suspended for operating without a Certificate of Compliance in violation of Regulation 54 of the Electronic Communications Regulations, 2011, L.I. 1991,” parts of the release read.

    Meanwhile, six other radio stations have been shut down in the same regard. The Authority has assured the general public that it remains dedicated to maintaining order in the broadcasting sector.

    The NCA warned that failure to comply with its recent directive shall constitute an affront to the prescribed conditions for FM broadcasting with grave consequences for their authorizations.

    On the other hand, in a letter dated August 12, Wontumi Multimedia insisted that it has met all regulatory requirements. According to Wontumi Multimedia, “We settled the outstanding regulatory and spectrum fees amounting to Twenty- Two Thousand, Three Hundred and Thirty Ghana Cedis (GHC 22,330.00).

    “We invited the NCA for another inspection, which we facilitated as per the stipulated timeline. Given that all the issues highlighted in your previous letters have been addressed, we are currently working with our legal representatives to ensure that all matters related to our operations are handled appropriately.

    Earlier this month, Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, Sam Nartey George revealed that a majority of the radio stations that were provided amnesty to meet regulatory requirements after being shut down have begun regularizing their paperwork.

    Providing an update to the public as part of the Government Accountability Series on August 1, the minister revealed that 58 out of the 64 radio stations are correcting their wrongs.

    “About five weeks ago, the ministry issued a directive to the NCA to shut down 64 radio stations. The President, H.E. John Dramani Mahama intervened and requested amnesty, which we granted—a 30-day amnesty.

    Of the 64 radio stations, 58 of them have written to the NCA and started the process of regularising their paperwork,” he said. He, however, noted that the 64 stations were just the first batch of the radio stations that were not complying with the laws.

    “However, you’d recall that I indicated that the total number of radio stations in default was 210. The 64 was just not one phase. We expect that the public sensitization with the first batch of 64 would have compelled the others to have taken steps to rectify their anomaly.”

    As such, the sector minister noted that “for all those who have failed to take any step, there will be no further public announcement on it. There will be simply enforcement in order to protect the public resource.”

    President John Dramani Mahama in June directed the Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation to liaise with the National Communications Authority (NCA) to immediately restore the broadcast of sixty-four (64) radio stations affected by the regulator’s action.

    The National Communications Authority (NCA) ordered a total of 62 FM broadcasting stations to immediately suspend operations on their respective frequencies due to persistent violations of regulatory requirements.

    The non-compliant stations violated Regulations 54 and 56 of the Electronic Communications Regulations, 2011 (L.I. 1991) and the Conditions of their FM Broadcasting Authorisations. In a statement by the Presidency on June 12, it was revealed that President Mahama is of the opinion that regulatory compliance must take into account the need to uphold and enhance media freedom.

    Per the statement, “requiring radio stations to shut down while awaiting the regularisation of their authorisation could limit the space for expressing such freedoms.”

    The President thus requested the sector minister to work with the NCA on a reasonable timeframe within which the affected stations should regularise their authorisation. The Ministry for Communications complied with the directive.

    Founder of Asaase Radio, Mr Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko confirmed the suspended operations of his radio station. In a post on X, Mr Otchere-Darko revealed that his uniform was supposed to renew its licence in October last year but only did so in December. Asaase Radio was set to commemorate its 5th anniversary on Saturday, June 14.

    “Yes, it’s true. Asaase Radio 99.5, which celebrates its 5th anniversary Saturday, has been shut down. The General Manager informs me it’s because the station delayed in renewing its licence last year. It was to be renewed by October but only done in December 2024,” Gabby Otchere-Darko wrote on X.

    In response, the Communications Minister Sam Nartey George entreated Mr Otchere-Darko to take advantage of the 30-days clemency the President has given and act according to what the law states. “The action by the NCA is in conformance with law. It is imperative we all respect the laws and act accordingly. Those affected are advised to take advantage of the 30-days clemency the President has given. For God and Country.”

    Per a statement issued by NCA, its action followed a directive issued by the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovation, Sam Nartey George, mandating the authority to enforce applicable sanctions on stations found to be in violation of the regulations in the recent audit conducted to ensure full compliance with licensing and operational requirements in the broadcasting sector.

    The NCA thus commenced enforcement of regulatory sanctions against the defaulting entities identified in the Frequency Audit Report in phases. The categorisation of infractions under the first phase includes 28 stations operating with expired authorizations.

    Some of these stations were ordered by the NCA in 2024 to cease broadcasting but have persisted in the illegality. This represents a violation of Section 2 (4) of the Electronic Communications Act. 2008 (Act 775).

    Also, 14 FM stations that were issued Notices of Revocation for failure to set up within two (2) years from the date of their Authorizations subsequently requested inspection, but the process has not been completed due to various lapses they have to rectify but are still on air. These stations are in violation of Regulation 54 of the Electronic Communications Regulations, 2011. LI. 1991.

    Thirteen (13) FM stations that applied for authorization to continue operating and have been issued provisional authorization but have not settled the provisional authorization fees in full and hence do not have the valid authorization to continue operating.

    This represents a violation of Section 2(4) of the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775). The NCA noted that it acknowledges the vital role radio stations play in national development; however, it is imperative that all authorization holders strictly adhere to the regulatory requirements and conditions of their authorizations.

    The Authority assured the general public that it remains dedicated to maintaining order in the broadcasting sector.

    In February this year, Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, ordered the closure of seven radio stations across the country for failing to comply with broadcasting regulations and national security requirements.

    Fire Group of Companies, I-Zar Consult Limited, Abochannel Media Group, Okyeame Radio Limited, Mumen Bono Foundation, and Osikani Community FM—were operating without valid frequency authorizations, while one, Gumah FM in Bawku, was closed on security grounds.

    Announcing the decision in a Facebook post on Tuesday, February 18, the minister emphasized the need for strict enforcement of media regulations to ensure responsible broadcasting.

    The move sparked discussions on media freedom and regulation, with some welcoming the enforcement of broadcasting standards, while others questioned the potential impact on press freedom.

    The Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) highlighted the unconstitutionality of shutting down the radio stations without consulting major stakeholders such as the independent National Media Commission (NMC). The Minority in Parliament then demanded that the Minister must appear before the House to provide clarity over the matter, but the Majority objected.

  • ‘We have not been able to find Wontumi’ – NPP Dep. General Secretary

    ‘We have not been able to find Wontumi’ – NPP Dep. General Secretary

    Deputy General Secretary of the NPP, Haruna Mohammed, has expressed his dissatisfaction with the security agencies over their inability to provide details on the whereabouts of Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.

    Chairman Wontimi has been in the custody of Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) and National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) since Tuesday.

    Engaging the media, Mr Mohammed said: “No, we have not been able to find Chairman Wontumi. This is something that is very surprising to all of us.”

    He further criticised the current government’s approach to handling such high-profile cases, stating, “This government is interested in persecution, and I don’t know what they want this country to end up.”

    He added: “I can remember that when Koku Anyidohu, who was a deputy general secretary of the NDC, was arrested and sent to the BNI cells for treason charges, former President John Dramani Mahama and the party leadership were granted access to go in and meet with him. I don’t know what has changed now.”

    Lawyer for Chairman Wontumi, Andy Appiah-Kubi has revealed that his client has been able to meet the bail condition – a tune of GHS 50 million with two justified sureties by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO).

    Abetifi Member of Parliament and former Minister for Food and Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong, helped secure the necessary documentation to satisfy the bail terms, the lawyer revealed.

    “We have been able to provide the sureties. That one, I can assure you. I am very grateful to Honourable Bryan Acheampong, who has supported me in providing the documents. He has brought documents that are over and above the value of the money required,” Appiah-Kubi added.

    However, Wontumi remains in custody in spite of meeting the bail conditions due to a court motion that has been filed—unbeknownst to his legal team.

    “Unknown to me, an application was filed that prohibits us from securing his release,” he revealed.

    “The motion in question, filed by Marfo & Associates at the High Court in Accra, seeks a review of the bail conditions and may be aimed at either altering or suspending the terms previously set by EOCO. The exact content and legal grounds of the motion are yet to be made public, but sources close to the case suggest it could delay Wontumi’s release for several more days,” Citinewsroom reported.

    Some members of the Minority Caucus in Parliament and members of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) massed up at the National Intelligence Bureau headquarters to demand the immediate release and waiver of bail conditions for Chairman Wontumi on Friday.

    Amongst them were former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin and other bigwigs in the opposition party.

    Wontumi is under investigation for alleged serious criminal offences, including fraud, causing financial loss to the state, and money laundering, according to Deputy Attorney-General, Justice Srem-Sai.

    The NPP legislators embarked on a solidarity walk to the EOCO headquarters to demand his release on Thursday after boycotting parliamentary sitting. At the premises of EOCO, the legislators staged a sit-down and chanted a number of diplomatic and party songs.

    Simultaneously, other party supporters restricted the movements of police officers deployed to ensure safety and security. After minutes of intervention by party leadership, chaos was averted.

    Chairman Wontumi spent Wednesday night in the custody of EOCO. EOCO arrested Chairman Wontumi on Tuesday after he appeared before the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service. On Tuesday, supporters of the opposition party massed up at the EOCO office, demanding the release of Wontumi.

    He was sent to the hospital over an illness. He also failed to make a ¢50 million bail with two sureties, both of which must be justified. The Minority has emphasised that the bail is exorbitant and must be varied.

    “Have they looked at the Constitution? They should vary the bail term, the man is unwell. He’s in their [EOCO] custody, they know, so they should vary. Wontumi will not run away,” the Minority Leader said.

    Leadership of the NPP and Minority have noted that they will not meet the current bail condition and have pledged to mass up at EOCO’s premises on Friday, May 30.

    The Ashanti Regional Chairman voluntarily made an appearance at the CID headquarters on Monday alongside his legal team, including former Attorney General Godfred Dame, after an invitation from the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service.

    He was cautioned on the following allegations: undertaking mining operations without a license, entering a forest reserve without authorisation and pollution of water bodies. Chairman Wontumi denied these claims during his interrogation, presenting documents to authenticate his claims.

    He insists he was not involved in any illegal mining activities or operating in any forest reserve. Following the interrogations, the CID granted him bail with two sureties, though the exact amount has not yet been disclosed.

    This follows a failed attempt by a joint team of national security operatives and police officers to arrest him at his residence on May 23. After the failed search attempt, Mr Boasiako expressed his displeasure over a search that was orchestrated by national security operatives at his residence.

    The search comes after Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Buah, ordered the immediate revocation of Akonta Mining’s licenses, citing allegations of illegal mining and other violations.

    During engagement with the media, he accused the company of being involved in galamsey operations and breaching mining regulations.

    Mr Buah also claimed that Akonta Mining was illegally selling mining concessions within the Aboi Forest to unauthorized miners, charging up to GH₵300,000 per concession, with some payments reportedly made in gold royalties.

    Akonta Mining Company Limited, owned by Chairman Wontumi, has taken legal action against the Minerals Commission and the Minister of Lands, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, claiming GH₵20 million in damages.

    The company alleges that during a press conference on April 22, Minister Buah made defamatory remarks, accusing Akonta Mining of illegal mining activities within the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve.

    The company has strongly denied these accusations, asserting that its mining leases, which were granted in 2021, cover areas outside of the protected reserve.

    The lawsuit, filed at the Accra High Court on April 24, argues that the minister’s statements were false and damaging to its reputation.

  • You’ve collapsed my businesses; am I not a Ghanaian? Wontumi quizzes govt

    You’ve collapsed my businesses; am I not a Ghanaian? Wontumi quizzes govt

    Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has expressed his displeasure over a search that was orchestrated by national security operatives at his residence today.

    A search warrant was provided for a search, but the reason for the search is not yet known to the public.

    Engaging the media with support from party stalwarts, Chairman Wontumi quizzed the government over what he described as unfair treatment.

    “Am I not a Ghanaian anymore? Now that you’ve won the election and become President, does that mean I’m no longer a Ghanaian?”

    “Was I ever a Vice President? Have I ever chaired a board? Have I ever been a CEO? Was I ever a minister? I am only the chairman of a political party, and it is my duty to campaign for my party.”

    He accused the government of going after his businesses.

    “You collapsed my business back in 2013. Since you assumed office, you’ve halted all my operations. Even the bank account I rely on has been frozen,” he alleged.

    He entreated members of the general public, particularly members of the New Patriotic Party to throw their weight behind him.

    “Ghanaians, rise! Arise, Ghanaians! All NPP supporters should rise. It is because of you that Mahama is treating me this way.”

    The search comes after Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Buah, ordered the immediate revocation of Akonta Mining’s licenses, citing allegations of illegal mining and other violations.

    During the press briefing, he accused the company of being involved in galamsey operations and breaching mining regulations.

    Buah also claimed that Akonta Mining was illegally selling mining concessions within the Aboi Forest to unauthorized miners, charging up to GH₵300,000 per concession, with some payments reportedly made in gold royalties.

    Akonta Mining Company Limited, owned by Chairman Wontumi, has taken legal action against the Minerals Commission and the Minister of Lands, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, claiming GH₵20 million in damages.

    The company alleges that during a press conference on April 22, Minister Buah made defamatory remarks, accusing Akonta Mining of illegal mining activities within the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve.

    The company has strongly denied these accusations, asserting that its mining leases, which were granted in 2021, cover areas outside of the protected reserve.

    The lawsuit, filed at the Accra High Court on April 24, 2025, argues that the minister’s statements were false and damaging to its reputation.

  • Chairman Wontumi’s residence besieged by national security, police

    Chairman Wontumi’s residence besieged by national security, police

    A team of national security operatives and police officers has thronged the residence of Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.

    Per media reports, there is to be a search of his residence as the team provided a search warrant.

    It is unclear the reason for the search. Also, the whereabouts of Chairman Wontumi are presently unknown. Currently, party folks are at the residence of the regional chairman of the opposition party.

    This incident briefly follows the arrest of a member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Alfred Ababio Kumi, who has petitioned President John Mahama to dissolve the committee probing the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, by the Crime Investigation Department (CID) and National Security operatives.

    Reports from a top executive of the opposition party, the general secretary, Justin Frimpong Kodua, and confirmation from Alfred’s mother confirm his arrest by the officials.

    “All patriots should rush to Adenta Kumi’s house, as over 20 CID and National Security officers are there to pick him up,” the General Secretary wrote in a post on social media.

    The petitioner’s mother who engaged Asaase Radio in an interview said: “They broke the door to his house. They brought a paper (search warrant) but I didn’t take a look at it. They said they need to have a conversation with him so they took him away.”

    Prior to his pickup, Alfred Kumi in his petition to the President stated that he witnessed three Supreme Court justices—including two members of the committee—having dinner at a restaurant in Accra.

    He named the individuals as the Chairman of the committee, Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu, and Justice Yonny Kulendi.

    His claims are yet to be verified following the publication of the video that captured the justices by the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), Godwin Edudzi Tameklo to disprove the allegations.

    Background

    A series of petitions have been filed against Chief Justice Torkornoo, beginning with one from a group known as Shining Stars of Ghana.

    The group alleges she violated Article 144 of the Constitution by personally recommending judges for promotion to the Supreme Court, and further claims she ruled on a case involving the Speaker of Parliament without granting him a hearing, despite his refusal to respond to the suit.

    Another petition from a police officer who is also a lawyer accuses the Chief Justice of manipulating evidence and abusing her authority, following an incident during a Supreme Court session where he was reportedly reprimanded, arrested, and detained. However, court records suggest the lawyer’s conduct during proceedings prompted a unanimous caution from the bench, not just the Chief Justice.

    A third petition, submitted by a private individual, lists 21 alleged misconducts and four claims of incompetence. Among the accusations is the misuse of public funds—specifically, that she spent over GH¢261,000 and $30,000 on a family trip abroad in 2023 and misused an additional GH¢75,580 and $14,000 during another foreign assignment without proper accountability.

    Subsequent reports indicate two more petitions have been added to the list, intensifying pressure on the judiciary.

    Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, in her written response to President Mahama, strongly denied allegations of misconduct and abuse of office brought against her by senior police officer describing them as baseless and lacking grounds for her removal from office.

    A five-member committee has been formed to investigate the matter. The committee is chaired by Supreme Court Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, and includes Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu, former Auditor-General Daniel Yaw Domelevo, Major Flora Bazwaanura Dalugo of the Ghana Armed Forces, and Associate Professor James Sefah Dzisah of the University of Ghana.

    Legal matters arising

    Member of Parliament for Old Tafo, Ekow Vincent Assafuah, has moved to challenge the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, filing an application at the Supreme Court to injunct the presidential decision.

    The notice of motion, dated April 24, is a direct response to President John Dramani Mahama’s April 22 suspension of the Chief Justice, which was carried out in line with Article 146(6) of the 1992 Constitution after consultations with the Council of State and a determination that a prima facie case existed.

    According to Mr Assafuah, the process that led to the Chief Justice’s suspension violated constitutional provisions, as she was not informed of the petitions nor given an opportunity to respond before the President engaged the Council of State.

    He further described the actions taken thus far, including the formation of an investigative committee, as “a farce and the product of a pre-conceived orchestration to unconstitutionally remove the Chief Justice from office.”

    Ekow Vincent Assafuah filed an injunction application to halt the process for the removal of the Chief Justice; however, this application was also dismissed by the Supreme Court on May 6.

    The second interlocutory injunction application challenging the process for the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo from office has been thrown out by the apex court.

    The Supreme Court, by a 4 to 1 majority decision, deemed the application by a private citizen, Theodore Kofi Atta-Quartey, unmeritorious on Wednesday, May 21.

    The five-member panel comprised Justices Paul Baffoe-Bonnie (Presiding), Issifu Omoro Tanko Amadu, Yonny Kulendi, Henry Anthony Kwofie, and Yaw Asare Darko. Justice Yaw Asare Darko was the only one who disagreed with the majority’s opinion.

    Justice Torkornoo heads to court

    Suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo has headed to the Supreme Court to prevent the committee set up by President John Mahama to probe the petitions seeking her removal from office.

    She is also requesting the apex court to halt her suspension issued by the President under Article 146(10) of the Constitution until a final determination is made on the matter.

    On Wednesday, May 21, her legal team at Dame and Partners filed an interlocutory injunction application.

    The defendants per the writ, are Attorney-General Dr Dominic Ayine, Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu, Daniel Yao Domelovo, Major Flora Bazwaanura Dalugo, and Professor James Sefah Dzisah.

    The plaintiff has prayed the apex court to restrain the committee from proceeding with any further inquiry as well as prevent Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, the acting Chief Justice, from participating in the process.

    Experts react to Torkornoo’s suit

    A former Director of the Ghana School of Law, Kwaku Ansa-Asare, believes that Justice Torkornoo should have first sought counsel from the Judicial Council before heading to the apex court.

    “The Judicial Council has been established to aid successive Chief Justices to behave themselves. So if an incumbent Chief Justice has a problem, her first port of call should be to seek counsel. I don’t think that has been done,” he said.

    Director of Legal Affairs for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Godwin Edudzi Tameklo, described the suspended Chief Justice’s move as interesting.

    “I’m happy that the suspended Chief Justice is going to have the benefit of how the justice system works. Just like any one of us, her leadership may need the benefits of the very justice she, together with others, over the years, delivered to people,” he said while engagaing the media in an interview.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Vote Bawumia to access University through Ghana card – Wontumi to Ghanaians

    Vote Bawumia to access University through Ghana card – Wontumi to Ghanaians

    Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi and the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has urged Ghanaian youth to rally behind Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for the upcoming presidential election.

    Wontumi asserts that electing Bawumia would lead to significant changes, including the ability for young people to enroll in universities using only their Ghana Cards and to secure jobs with monthly salaries of GHS 8,000 immediately upon graduation.

    “Dr Bawumia says that if you vote for him to become president, you should take your Ghana Card and attend university. Upon completion, there will be an immediate job available that pays GHS 8,000 a month,” Wontumi declared in a widely circulated video.

    During a recent address, Wontumi emphasized that a Bawumia presidency would simplify the process of accessing higher education through the national identification card.

    He also claimed that graduates would be guaranteed immediate employment with attractive salaries, with a repayment system allowing them to pay off their education costs in installments deducted from their salaries.

    His statements have ignited considerable debate on social media, with many Ghanaians expressing skepticism and mocking the ambitious promises. Critics argue that the prospect of widespread, high-paying job opportunities seems unrealistic, particularly given the current economic difficulties in the country.

    Unemployment is a pressing issue in Ghana, with numerous administrations struggling to generate enough job openings for graduates.

    A 2021 World Bank report noted that while over 110,000 young people graduate from universities each year, the lack of growth in sectors outside oil and minerals has contributed to rising graduate unemployment.

    According to data from the Ghana Statistical Service, as of the third quarter of 2023, approximately 2.06 million out of 12 million employed Ghanaians were jobless, translating to an unemployment rate of 14.7%.

    Greater Accra has been particularly affected, showing an unemployment rate of 25.7%, meaning one in four people actively seeking work in the capital is unemployed. The Ashanti and Western regions also reported unemployment rates above 16%, while the Oti region recorded the lowest at 6.4%.

    Gender disparities are evident as well, with 17.7% of economically active women unemployed compared to 10.9% of men.

    The ambitious claims of immediate job placement and lucrative salaries have left many questioning the practicality of Wontumi’s assertions, especially in light of the ongoing challenges of unemployment in the nation.

  • NPP confirms former independent candidate Amoako Asiamah as Fomena Parliamentary candidate

    NPP confirms former independent candidate Amoako Asiamah as Fomena Parliamentary candidate

    New Patriotic Party (NPP) has officially selected Andrew Amoako Asiamah, the 2nd Deputy Speaker of Parliament, as their 2024 parliamentary candidate for Fomena.

    This endorsement came during a National Executive Council meeting, where the decision received unanimous support.

    The NPP Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, better known as Chairman Wontumi, conveyed the party’s enthusiasm over Asiamah’s endorsement to the constituency’s leadership on Thursday.

    Chairman Wontumi highlighted the significant support Asiamah has provided the party, noting his current role as the independent MP for Fomena.

    Expressing confidence in Asiamah’s candidature, Chairman Wontumi emphasised that his return to the NPP fold signals a promising future for the Fomena constituency.

    He commended Asiamah for his unwavering dedication and the positive impact he has had on the party’s image in Parliament.

    According to Chairman Wontumi, Asiamah’s candidature is more than just a routine move; it represents a strong step towards victory for both the constituency and Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.


    In response, the 2nd Deputy Speaker, Andrew Amoako Asiamah, expressed deep emotion, sharing how much he had missed everything about the New Patriotic Party (NPP), a party he has always held dear to his heart.

    With renewed enthusiasm, Asiamah pledged his full commitment to leading the party to a historic landslide victory, not only for himself but also for Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, in the Fomena constituency.

    Asiamah urged party members and supporters to set aside any past grievances and come together to work for the greater good of the NPP.

    He emphasized that unity and focus were crucial at this time. What truly mattered, he noted, was for leaders in the constituency, especially Assembly members, to actively campaign on the many ongoing projects in Fomena.

    By showcasing these developments, he believed they could attract more votes and strengthen the party’s position in the upcoming elections.

    The NPP Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako (Chairman Wontumi), accompanied Asiamah on a visit to several communities within the Fomena constituency, including Adokwai, Dompoase, and Old Edubiase.

    During these visits, they engaged with local residents, urging them to continue supporting the NPP as the December 7 elections approached, highlighting the importance of retaining the party in power for the benefit of the entire region.

  • Video: Chairman Wontumi’s second wife flaunts her luxury car

    Video: Chairman Wontumi’s second wife flaunts her luxury car

    A recent video featuring Michellin Lawson, the second wife of Chairman Wontumi, has sparked significant buzz online.

    The clip, shared on TikTok by renowned Kumasi-based artist Barima Artistry, captures Lawson showing off her look following a makeup session.

    Dressed in funeral attire, she confidently poses and reveals her style.

    At one point, she is seen inside her Mercedes Benz G-Wagon, offering a glimpse of its interior.

    The video quickly went viral, garnering a variety of responses from viewers, both those seeing her for the first time and those already familiar with her.

    This isn’t Michellin’s first time in the spotlight; a previous video of her, Chairman Wontumi, and his first wife during his mother’s funeral also went viral.

    Watch video below:

  • “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.

  • Ato Forson and I speak the same kind of English – Chairman Wontumi

    Ato Forson and I speak the same kind of English – Chairman Wontumi

    Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, also known as Chairman Wontumi, has compared his prowess in speaking English to that of the Minority Leader in Parliament, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson.

    According to him, Dr. Ato Forson is no better than him when it comes to the English language since they both make errors.

    He further teased the Minority Leader, suggesting that Dr. Forson does not directly generate money by speaking English.

    In an interview on Abusua FM, Chairman Wontumi said, “As for Ato Forson, he speaks no better English than my broken English. We all make the same grammatical mistakes. It’s just that when I speak my English, it brings money.”

    Chairman Wontumi has on several occasions made some basic errors when speaking English. Some Ghanaians believe the local dialect, Twi, suits Wontumi best.

  • Mahama should be blamed for the collapse of Ghana movie industry – Wontumi

    Mahama should be blamed for the collapse of Ghana movie industry – Wontumi

    Bernard Antwi Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi and the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has held the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer John Mahama accountable for the decline of Ghana’s movie industry.

    In an interview on Kumasi-based Abusua FM on Tuesday, August 6, 2024, Chairman Wontumi attributed the industry’s collapse to the severe power outages, known locally as “dumsor,” experienced during Mahama’s presidency.

    Chairman Wontumi asserted, “The collapse of the Ghana movie industry was because of John Mahama. The dumsor he brought caused it.” This accusation was shared widely on social media via a flyer posted by Abusua FM.

    He continued to criticize the previous NDC government for various national issues while commending the NPP administration for its achievements.

    Chairman Wontumi urged Ghanaians to support NPP’s presidential candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, in the upcoming elections, emphasizing his digitalization promises.

    This development occurs against a backdrop of dissatisfaction within the creative arts sector regarding the current government’s performance and unmet promises. Many stakeholders have expressed concerns over the sector’s neglect and lack of support.

    Addressing these issues, Dr. Bawumia, during a public speech at the University of Professional Studies (UPSA) in Accra on February 7, 2024, outlined his plans to revitalize the creative arts sector. His proposals included the introduction of digital and streaming platforms, tax incentives for movie producers, and an e-visa policy for international tourists.

    These discussions are taking place as Ghana prepares for its general elections on December 7, 2024. The contest will feature NDC’s John Dramani Mahama, NPP’s Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Nana Kwame Bediako of the New Force Movement, and Alan Kyerematen of the Movement for Change.

  • “Let’s make sure to vote John Mahama” – Wontumi ‘mistakenly’ says

    “Let’s make sure to vote John Mahama” – Wontumi ‘mistakenly’ says

    The Ashanti Regional chairman of the New Patriotic Party, Bernard Antwi Boasiako (alias Chairman Wontumi), has mistakenly urged Ghanaians to vote for John Mahama, John Dramani Mahama instaed of Dr Mahamudu Bawumia in the upcoming elections.

    Chairman Wontumi was with the media in Kumasi to generate support for the NPP’s campaign, urging residents to vote overwhelmingly for Dr. Bawumia and the NPP as they aim for a historic 85% of the vote in the December 7 election.

    During the interview, Wontumi promoted the NPP ticket of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh as the best choice for the Asantes, while depicting Mahama as an adversary of the Ashanti Region.

    Unfortunately for Wontumi, while attempting to endorse Dr. Bawumia as the ideal candidate for the Ashanti Region, he accidentally mentioned John Dramani Mahama. This slip has become the focal point of the interview, which lasted over an hour and a half.

    “We are pleading with you all to vote for John Dramani ….” Wontumi said in the viral video.

    Wontumi is the second high-profile NPP member to suffer a speech gaffe this year after President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo mistakenly mentioned John Mahama as his vice instead of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

    President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo was forced to ‘retract’ a statement he made at the launch of the District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP), a nationwide initiative to improve road conditions in all 275 constituencies.

    The president, as he was touting the performance of his government in the road sector, mistakenly mentioned former President John Dramani Mahama instead of his vice, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

    “We’ve witnessed an extraordinary expansion and improvement in our road network throughout the country. From 2009 to 2016, that is the Mills-Mahama era, our nation completed 4,636 roads and five interchanges and overpasses. However, since January 2017 till date, i.e. the Akufo-Addo-Mahama era,” he said.

    The president tried correcting his mistake, but before then, many in the audience reacted with an “Eiiii.”

    The president could be seen covering his mouth, after which he said:

    “That’s unforgivable. That’s unforgivable. I hope you will allow me to withdraw that statement; The Akufo-Addo-Bawumia era.”

  • 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.

  • “It is never good to argue with tomfoolery” – Chairman Wontumi jabs Blakk Rasta

    “It is never good to argue with tomfoolery” – Chairman Wontumi jabs Blakk Rasta

    Broadcaster Blakk Rasta vehemently criticized Chairman Wontumi‘s recent claim that the standard of living in Ghana exceeds that of the United Kingdom, dismissing it as delusional and disconnected from reality during his radio show.

    “To compare Ghana’s standard of living favorably with the UK is akin to the madman’s dance entertaining to outsiders but distressing to his own family,” Blakk Rasta passionately remarked on 3FM.

    He highlighted the stark disparities in infrastructure and services, noting the UK’s reliable electricity, running water, accessible healthcare, and quality education.

    Blakk Rasta expressed disbelief at Chairman Wontumi’s statements, characterizing them as irrational and unfounded.

    “Such remarks verge on the absurd. It’s like listening to the ramblings of a psychopath,” he criticized.

    In response, Chairman Wontumi dismissed Blakk Rasta’s criticism as irrelevant and disparaging, labeling the broadcaster a corrupt journalist and accusing him of being intoxicated during his commentary.

    These exchanges have fueled intense debates on social media about global economic disparities and the realities of living standards in different countries.


    “It is never good to argue with a tomfoolery. You are a very corrupt journalist. You take in something before you come to talk, drunkard. Whenever you hear me talk, be circumspect and analyze it before responding. I will never say something insulting about the UK. That is where I was brought up, that is where my children come from. That is my second home,” Wontumi retorted.

    Background

    Chairman Wontumi previously addressed the media, drawing comparisons between the living standards in Ghana and the UK.

    “I acknowledge that there is hardship in the country. However, this hardship is global, and we are actively working to improve the quality of life for the people of Ghana. The standard of living in Ghana is better than that in the UK.

    “For instance, even at social gatherings in the UK, attendees are required to bring their own drinks, water, and food. After paying rent of 800 pounds and other bills from a salary of 1,500 pounds, there is little left for savings or family expenses. In contrast, accessing healthcare in Ghana does not require booking appointments as in the UK.

    “I urge journalists to provide accurate information to the people of Ghana, and for those abroad to honestly explain global economic hardships to their families. It’s important to recognize that COVID-19 and the Russia-Ukraine conflict have negatively impacted every country,” he explained during the media briefing.

    Chairman Wontumi’s remarks have since sparked intense debates on social media, fostering discussions on the comparative realities of living standards amidst prevailing global economic challenges.

    Watch video below:

  • “Chairman Wontumi is a mad man” – Blakk Rasta

    “Chairman Wontumi is a mad man” – Blakk Rasta

    Broadcaster Blakk Rasta sharply criticized Chairman Wontumi‘s recent assertion that the standard of living in Ghana surpasses that of the United Kingdom, calling the comparison delusional and absurd on his radio show.

    “Chairman Wontumi is like the madman whose dance is amusing to everyone except his own family. In Ghana, we lack basic infrastructure and services compared to the UK, where they have reliable electricity, running water, accessible healthcare, and quality education,” Blakk Rasta passionately remarked on 3FM.

    He went on to describe Wontumi’s comments as irrational and questioned their basis. “With speeches like these, he sounds like a psychopath,” Blakk Rasta added critically.

    In response, Chairman Wontumi dismissed Blakk Rasta’s criticism as irrelevant and disparaging, labeling the broadcaster a corrupt journalist and a drunkard in an audio response shared online.

    “It is never wise to argue with tomfoolery. You are a very corrupt journalist. You drink before you come to talk. Whenever you hear me speak, be circumspect and analyze it before responding,” Wontumi retorted.

    Chairman Wontumi’s initial remarks, comparing living standards in Ghana and the UK, had drawn attention earlier, sparking debates on social media about global economic hardships and local realities.

    Watch video below:

  • I never wanted running mate position; I can’t speak good English – Chairman Wontumi

    I never wanted running mate position; I can’t speak good English – Chairman Wontumi

    Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi has unequivocally stated that he never aspired to become the running mate for the party in the upcoming 2024 elections.

    In an interview with Onua FM on July 15, 2024, Wontumi humorously pointed out his limitation with English proficiency, emphasizing that he would not pursue a position that could potentially make him a topic of discussion due to his language skills.

    “I never wanted the running mate position. I can’t even speak better English to become a running mate. I have a limit to my English, so I won’t go and say anything for me to become a topic of discussion because of my English,” Wontumi explained candidly.

    Despite dismissing any personal ambitions for the role, Wontumi expressed strong support for Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, popularly known as NAPO, who has been selected as the NPP’s running mate.

    He highlighted the importance of unity within the party and reaffirmed his endorsement of NAPO’s candidacy alongside Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for the presidency.

    “We are committed to ensuring their victory in the 2024 elections,” Wontumi affirmed, dispelling rumors of internal conflict within the NPP regarding NAPO’s selection.

    He emphasized that his role included endorsing NAPO, contributing to the party’s unified front as they prepare for the electoral contest.

  • We are ready for you – NDC’s James Agbey ‘warns’ Wontumi on one million ways to win comment

    We are ready for you – NDC’s James Agbey ‘warns’ Wontumi on one million ways to win comment

    Operative of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), James Agbey, responded sharply to the New Patriotic Party (NPP), stating that the NDC will not tolerate any attempts to manipulate the 2024 general elections if that is the NPP’s intention.

    His remarks were prompted by statements made by Bernard Antwi Boasiako (Chairman Wontumi), the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NPP, who asserted that the NPP has numerous strategies to secure victory in this year’s elections.

    Speaking at the outdooring of the running mate of the flagbearer of the NPP, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh, at the Jubilee Park in Kumasi on Thursday, July 9, Chairman Wontumi said, “They can’t stop us.

    2008, they delayed us. 2024 elections, NDC, you cannot stop us. We are winning. Tell the NDC that we have one million ways to win the 2024 elections and we are ready.”

    But in a statement, James Agbey said, “We are on a rescue mission to rescue Ghana from the claws of Akufo-Addo. We are ready to put an end to this opportunistic appropriation.

    “The truth is, there would be dire consequences if Wontumi and his likes make any wrong move ahead of the 2024 general elections.”

    Below is his full statement…

    For Immediate Release

    Monday, 15th 15, 2024

    Dare us, and you will be first to go down—NDC Operative warns Wuntumi

    Over the last couple of months, we’ve been saddled with news about stalwarts of the New Patriotic Party(NPP) making claims to the effect that power won’t change hands in the 2024 elections.

    These NPP elements have on several occasions in public platforms made the point that they will use every dubious means to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat.

    Just last week at an outdoring event for Bawumia’s running-mate, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NPP, Bernard Antwi Bosiako, popularly known as Wontumi made the point that the NPP have several ways of winning the 2024 elections, and that they will win by hook or crook.

    Wontumi while threatening the NDC said, “They can’t stop us. 2008 they delayed us. 2024 elections, NDC you cannot stop us. We are winning. Tell the NDC that we have one million ways to win 2024 elections and we are ready.”

    As an operative, who served the party in the Greater Accra Region as Director of Security operations in 2020, and currently serving as an operative, I have done an analysis of Wontumi’s threat and deeper scrutiny of the threat reveals that the NPP intends to use the Defence Forces of Ghana to unleash violence on the Ghanaian.

    In many ways, this obviously is more likely strong evidence that the NPP continue to muddy the waters or to put it more plainly deflect attention from their failures and misdemeanours.

    The NPP stalwarts are talking tough because they care very little about the consequences of their actions.

    I recall how the NPP in recent times was accused of breeding and arming thugs as well as fake security operatives to harass and attack Ghanaians in the Ayawaso West Wuogon by-elections in 2020.

    We have seen how political violence has thrown the sociopolitical landscape of so many countries into total chaos.

    Even in our recent past here in Ghana, we have seen how violence almost swallowed us in the Ayawaso West Wuogon by-election, and the ugly situation in the 2020 general elections, where five (5) innocent citizens lost their lives in Techiman South.

    At this juncture, let me sound a note of caution to all concerned, and warn that we’re ready to use legitimate force and every means under the sun to get Wontumi and his like minds out of the way, and restore dignity and respect to the good people of Ghana.

    If they have one million ways to win, we also have two million ways to bring them down.

    This year’s election is totally different from the 2020 one, where Akufo-Addo was allowed to have his way.

    We are on a rescue mission to rescue Ghana from the claws of Akufo-Addo. We are ready to put an end to this opportunistic appropriation.

    The truth is, there would be dire consequences if Wontumi and his likes make any wrong move ahead of the 2024 general elections.

    Let it also be on record that whether the NPP like it or not, the NDC under president Mahama is surely taking over power in 2024.

    For emphasis, majority of Ghanaians are insisting on the return of the NDC to government in 2024, and there’s nothing that is going to stop the momentum that’s building in that regard.

    The NPP dare not connive with rogue elements in the armed forces to disrupt the 2024 polls.

    As a longstanding Operative for the NDC, I can boldly speak of our experiences and know-how, and our resilience to wade off any NPP undemocratic tendencies.

    The truth is, there would be dire consequences if the Nitiwul and his likes make any wrong move ahead of the 2024 general elections. In fact, Nitiwul will be first to go down if he dare orchestrate election rigging and violence in the forthcoming general election.

    Some of us are ready and willing to defend our democracy. We are ready to face off with the NPP in the event that they use the armed forces to destabilise 2024 elections.

    We know Wontumi’s antics. He is clearly beating the war drum, and he should be ready to dance to the tune of his own music.

    The NPP must not dare us.

    Signed:
    James Agbey (NDC OPERATIVE)

  • NAPO unveiling in Kumasi: Otumfuo thanks Chairman Wontumi

    NAPO unveiling in Kumasi: Otumfuo thanks Chairman Wontumi

    Overlord of the Asante Kingdom, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has expressed his appreciation to New Patriotic Party’s Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako popularly known as Chairman Wontumi for his role and support for NAPO so far within the region.

    He expressed his gratitude during the grand unveiling of the party’s running mate Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh also known as NAPO at the Jubilee Park in Kumasi on July 9, 2024.

    “Thank Chairman Wontumi for me, Ashanti Regional chairman, for his support and role played in this NAPO journey” the Asante overlord said.

    Meanwhile, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia formally informed the National Officers of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) about his selection of Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, also known as NAPO, as his running mate for the upcoming 2024 general elections on July 1st, 20241.

    This significant announcement paved the way for NAPO’s official unveiling as Bawumia’s running mate in Kumasi on July 9, 2024.

    The National Executive Council (NEC) of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) convened on Thursday, July 4, 2024, to deliberate on the nomination of Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh (NAPO) as the running mate to the party’s flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia1.

    This crucial meeting resulted in unanimous approval of NAPO’s candidacy, paving the way for his official unveiling as Bawumia’s running mate in Kumasi on July 9, 2024.

  • “We’ve 1 million ways to win 2024 elections” – Chairman Wontumi

    “We’ve 1 million ways to win 2024 elections” – Chairman Wontumi

    Regional Chairman for Ashanti Region and a prominent figure in the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Chairman Wontumi exuded confidence in the party’s prospects for victory in the upcoming 2024 elections.

    During the unveiling of NAPO at the Manhyia Palace, he expressed optimism, describing the election as potentially straightforward.

    Chairman Wontumi emphasized the NPP’s readiness, asserting that the party has thoroughly prepared to secure victory, stating, “We have one million ways to win the 2024 elections.”

    Thousands of supporters of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) gathered at the Jubilee Park in Kumasi for the official unveiling of NAPO.

    The party unveiled Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, known as “NAPO,” as the running mate to their flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for the 2024 general elections.

    Several business activities have stopped for several hours.

    The central business district and areas around the Jubilee Park are overflowing with a stream of NPP colours as party supporters clad themselves in party paraphernalia in support of NAPO’s unveiling.

    The was spontaneous wild jubilations across the city after he was named as the running mate of the NPP.

  • Video: Chairman Wontumi, Frimpong Kodua show their dance skills at Bawumia’s UK fundraiser

    Video: Chairman Wontumi, Frimpong Kodua show their dance skills at Bawumia’s UK fundraiser

    Over the weekend, key figures of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) joined Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for a fundraising event in the United Kingdom (UK).

    The event aimed to gather financial support for the NPP’s campaign efforts leading up to the 2024 general elections, drawing attendance from numerous party supporters and leaders.

    A video captured at the event, featured General Secretary Justin Frimpong Kodua and Ashanti Regional Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako (known as Wontumi), joyously dancing to Daddy Lumba’s “Theresa” alongside other enthusiastic party members, while Dr. Bawumia observed from the head table.

    In preparation for the December 7 elections, Vice President Bawumia has been actively campaigning across various regions, engaging with diverse groups and individuals to communicate his vision and policies.

  • Kumasi gears up for Bawumia’s campaign tour

    Kumasi gears up for Bawumia’s campaign tour

    Supporters and MPs surprised Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia at his residence in Kumasi as he geared up to kickstart his campaign tour in the Ashanti region.

    Dr. Bawumia was greeted with enthusiasm on June 10 as a sizable crowd gathered at his Ahodwo Daban residence.

    They accompanied him to Tru Vine Hotel in Nhyiaeso, the venue for his first scheduled meeting.

    Leading the procession was Regional Chairman, Chairman Wontumi, joined by Minister for Education Osei Adutwum, Campaign Coordinator for the Middle-Belt and MP for Effiduase Asokore, Dr. Ayew Afriyie, and Deputy Minister of Finance Dr. Steven Amoah.

    The welcoming committee set a vibrant mood, resonating with cheers and applause.

    In a widely circulated video, the Vice President was seen smiling and interacting with the exuberant crowd, showcasing the robust backing he commands in the region.

    Dr. Bawumia’s campaign tour spans three days in the Ashanti region, encompassing engagements with party members, door-to-door canvassing, and meetings with various organized groups and religious bodies.

    Furthermore, he plans to extend a courtesy visit to the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, at the Manhyia Palace.

    Watch video below:

  • I’ll ensure all NPP cardholders vote in internal elections – Chairman Wontumi pledges

    I’ll ensure all NPP cardholders vote in internal elections – Chairman Wontumi pledges

    The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi has hinted at the party’s contemplation of expanding the current delegates’ register universally.

    Chairman Wontumi disclosed that he has discussed with the party’s General Secretary, Justin Frimpong Kodua, about enlarging the current register to prevent issues that could potentially divide the party.

    “To be sincere, I am going to fight. I have talked to the General Secretary and he agrees with me that every card bearing member of our party be allowed to vote in all our internal elections.”

    “He has accepted and I know there are a lot of people in our party who also support this” Wontumi said in an interview on his radio station.

    This isn’t the first time the expansion of the NPP delegates’ register has been discussed. During the party’s annual delegates congress in December 2021 at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi, various proposals emerged, including one from former MP for Manhyia North Constituency, Collins Owusu Amankwah, suggesting the inclusion of all former MPs in the electoral college.

    A member of the Constitutional Review Committee of the party and former Deputy Attorney General, Joseph Dindiok Kpemka, remarked in an interview with TV3’s William Evans-Nkum that they are reviewing these proposals and they can only be adopted by Congress.

    Over the years, there have been complaints from party members regarding their exclusion from the delegates’ list, leading to growing disillusionment.

    In the buildup to the Ejisu by-election, former MP Kwabena Owusu Aduomi contested as an independent candidate, citing dissatisfaction with the opaque delegate selection process.

    Similar grievances have surfaced in the Ashanti Region, with instances like the departure of Andrews Asiamah, the current 2nd Deputy Speaker, who contested as an independent candidate in the 2020 parliamentary elections due to issues with the delegate selection process.

    Bernard Antwi Boasiako emphasized that all card-bearing members of the NPP should be empowered to participate in future internal elections, questioning the rationale behind restricting their voting rights in determining parliamentary candidates and constituency or national executives.

  • I put Wontumi in his place even in the presence of former president Kufuor – Dr. Richard Anane

    I put Wontumi in his place even in the presence of former president Kufuor – Dr. Richard Anane

    Former Health Minister, Dr. Richard Anane recently spoke out against Ashanti Regional Chairman Wontumi‘s behavior within the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

    He indicated that during a meeting in the presence of former President John Agyekum Kufuor, he addressed Chairman Wontumi directly, expressing concerns about his actions damaging the party’s reputation.

    Dr. Anane emphasized that as the Ashanti Regional Chairman, Wontumi’s demeanor and actions should reflect the role’s responsibility as a unifying force within the party.

    Instead, Dr. Anane believes Wontumi’s conduct has been detrimental, causing more harm than good.

    “I chastised Chairman Wontumi in the presence of former President Kufuor. I told him directly in his presence that he is destroying the party. He should behave accordingly to his role as a chairman rather than causing more damage,” Dr. Richard Anane stated, highlighting the need for constructive leadership within the NPP.

    Watch video below:

  • If Bawumia wins, we will make, launch rockets into space for the first time in Ghana – Wontumi

    If Bawumia wins, we will make, launch rockets into space for the first time in Ghana – Wontumi

    Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, also known as Chairman Wontumi, has boldly expressed the party’s confidence in launching rockets into space for the first time in Ghana.

    Speaking on his radio station, Wontumi FM on April 19, the chairman stated that should the party’s current flagbearer, Vice President Dr. Bawumia, win the upcoming elections, the NPP plans to execute a space rocket launch before the end of his eight-year term.

    “If Bawumia wins the presidential bid this year, we will announce our readiness to build rockets and make a maiden voyage into space,” he noted.

  • Honour John Kumah, leave Ejisu seat for NPP -Chairman Wontumi tells NDC

    Honour John Kumah, leave Ejisu seat for NPP -Chairman Wontumi tells NDC

    Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP),Bernard Antwi Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi, has issued a heartfelt plea to all political factions, notably the primary opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), urging them to abstain from participating in the upcoming by-election in the Ejisu Constituency.

    Chairman Wontumi emphasized the paramount importance of paying homage to the late MP of the constituency, John Kumah. He stressed that Kumah’s profound legacy and dedicated service to both the Ejisu Constituency and the nation merit profound recognition and respect.

    In light of this, Chairman Wontumi called upon all constituents to unite in solidarity, striving to uphold the late MP’s honor by ensuring that the by-election seat remains uncontested by competing political entities.


    “All the constituents of Ejisu should help us send a signal to the NDC that we are serious. If it is possible, they (NDC) shouldn’t contest. But if they want to contest, we will turn our seriousness into a vote for the NPP for them to see that we love John by showing love to his replacement,” Chairman Wontumi asserted.

    The NPP stalwart acknowledged the party’s confidence in securing victory in the upcoming by-election. However, he urged other political parties to carefully weigh the broader implications of their participation in the electoral process.


    “We are left with only 8 months to the general elections. Even though the NPP will win, if you want to contest, we will do our campaign to win massively.
    “It will be nice for both sides to see that we are using this by-election in honour of John Kumah,” he added.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lsFLKlXij4M
  • Our misunderstandings do not mean we are not united – Chairman Wontumi

    Our misunderstandings do not mean we are not united – Chairman Wontumi


    Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Chairman Wontumi, rebukes members and executives for airing grievances in the media rather than utilizing internal channels, citing the action as detrimental to party unity and in violation of the NPP’s Constitution.

    In response to a recent petition filed by six elected Ashanti Regional party executives to the national leadership, alleging Chairman Wontumi’s neglect of duty, he defends himself, highlighting the importance of unity among executives as the party gears up for the December general elections during the inauguration of the party’s campaign team in the Ashanti Region.

    “In our companies, offices sometimes we have some misunderstandings, but it doesn’t mean we are not united. NPP we are poised to unite and win the 2024 elections, winning is not negotiable, we are united ever. We are united as a strong party to break the 8, we cannot disappoint Ghanaians and the Ashanti region” he said in an interview on Citi News.

    NPP’s Campaign Chairman, Dan Botwe, emphasizes the importance of utilizing internal structures for addressing grievances, urging party members to refrain from airing their concerns publicly.

    “If you have a grievance talk to people to solve it, if you go to the radio station and discuss it what do you achieve by doing that? We’re in a contest with others and we have to send a message that we are disciplined and focused and it’s important that we apply all those things in resolving our problems,” he said.

  • Chairman Wontumi knows something about John Kumah’s death – NDC Comm Officer alleges

    Chairman Wontumi knows something about John Kumah’s death – NDC Comm Officer alleges

    The Deputy Bono Regional Communications Officer for the National Democratic Congress (NDC),  Eric Adjei  has made startling allegations against Mr. Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

    Adjei alleges that Chairman Wontumi may possess information related to the death of Deputy Finance Minister John Kumah.

    Adjei claims that Chairman Wontumi’s aide confirmed to him the rumours, originally spread by media personality Captain Smart, about poisoned meat allegedly leading to John Kumah’s demise.

    The NDC official revealed that the aide indicated Chairman Wontumi was well-informed and in control during the event, unlike the late deputy minister.

    Further elaborating, Adjei asserted that Chairman Wontumi was conscious of the situation and consumed less poison compared to John Kumah.

    According to him, both Chairman Wontumi and the late deputy finance minister were present at the event where the poisoning allegedly occurred.

    “The aide confirmed that Chairman Wontumi and the late deputy finance minister were both present and consumed the poison, but Chairman Wontumi ingested a smaller amount compared to John Kumah,” stated Eric Adjei.

    Watch video below:

  • ‘Senseless’, Wontumi should mind his utterances; Prof. Jane Naana is not his mate – NDC Comm Officer

    The Deputy Bono Regional Communications Officer for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Eric Adjei, has strongly criticized NPP Ashanti Regional Chairman, Mr. Bernard Antwi Boasiako, also known as Chairman Wontumi, for making baseless allegations against John Dramani Mahama’s 2024 running mate, Prof Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang.

    In a recent statement, Chairman Wontumi claimed that Prof Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang was secretly married to former President Mahama in 2012 and insinuated an ongoing affair between them, allegedly unknown to Mahama’s wife, Lordina Mahama.

    Eric Adjei condemned these claims, labelling Chairman Wontumi as an irresponsible individual whose words should not be taken seriously in the political arena.

    He emphasised that Wontumi lacks the qualifications and credibility to make such allegations and urged the public to disregard his statements.

    Highlighting Prof Jane Naana’s significant contributions to society as a prominent female figure and role model, Eric Adjei stressed that her achievements should not be undermined by unsubstantiated political attacks.

    He cautioned against taking Wontumi’s remarks seriously, accusing him of engaging in misinformation tactics.

    Eric Adjei concluded by reaffirming the respect and admiration Prof Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang commands, emphasizing that she should not be subjected to baseless accusations or political smears orchestrated by individuals like Chairman Wontumi.

    “I’m saying that if we are to take somebody seriously in this country, not Chairman Wontumi, he is unserious , senseless and lacks manners. Prof. Jane Naana ought not to be messed with, her impact and achievement to society or the country at large is significant. Chairman Wontumi ought not to mess with her,” Eric Adjei stated.

    Watch video below:

  • 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.

  • Be bold and tell Ghanaians your running mate is your second wife! – Chairman Wontumi tells Mahama

    Be bold and tell Ghanaians your running mate is your second wife! – Chairman Wontumi tells Mahama

    The Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Ashanti Region, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has alleged that the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, and his running mate Naana Opoku Agyemang, got married in 2012.


    Chairman Wontumi made this allegation on Northern Go TV, but failed to substantiate it with evidence.

    He claimed that former First Lady Lordina Mahama is being deceived by two NDC personalities.

    Chairman Wontumi further alleged that Mahama and Naana Jane purportedly tied the knot after the latter divorced her husband of twenty years.

    “In 2012, John Mahama married Prof Jane Opoku Agyeman secretly, I’m speaking the gospel fact, so they are husband and wife, they are not flagbearer and running mate, they are deceiving Lordina (Mahama’s wife),” he said.

    Watch the video below:

  • John Mahama and his running mate are actually husband and wife?

    John Mahama and his running mate are actually husband and wife?

    There are reports that the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, and his running mate Naana Opoku Agyemang, are married.

    The Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Ashanti Region, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, is the source of this claim.

    During an interview on Northern Go TV, Chairman Wontumi made this controversial claim but failed to provide any form of proof.

    He alleged that former First Lady Lordina Mahama is being toiled with by the two NDC personalities.

    “In 2012, John Mahama married Prof Jane Opoku Agyeman secretly, I’m speaking the gospel fact, so they are husband and wife, they are not flagbearer and running mate, they are deceiving Lordina (Mahama’s wife),” he said.

    According to him, Mahama and Naana Jane managed to allegedly tie the knot after the latter divorced her husband of twenty years.

    Check out the interview granted by Chairman Wontumi.

  • Naana Jane Opoku Agyemang is not from the Central Region! – Chairman Wontumi claims

    Naana Jane Opoku Agyemang is not from the Central Region! – Chairman Wontumi claims


    The Ashanti Regional Chairman for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Bosiako, (Chairman Wontumi) has refuted claims that Naana Jane Opoku Agyemang, the running mate for the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama hails from the Central Region.

    Speaking on Northern Go FM he indicated that Professor Naana Jane Opoku Agyemang traces her origin to the Northern Region.

    He challenged her to be proud of her true heritage, stating, “I Wontumi says Nana Opoku Agyemang is not from the Central Region. I challenge Nana Opoku Agyemang. She is from the Northern Region. Wherever you come from, you must be proud of it. My wife and family are from the Central Region.

    According to him, Professor Naana Jane got married to an Ashanti man, Mr Opoku Agyemang, where they both worked at Cape Coast University (UCC).

    He added the marriage collapsed after 20 years, as such she kept the name “Opoku Agyemang”. 

    “She and her husband from the Ashanti Region, Mr Opoku Agyemang. They worked at Cape Coast University. As they worked, they studied with each other and got married and took the man’s name,” he added.

  • John Mahama secretly married Prof Jane Opoku Agyeman in 2012 – Chairman Wontumi alleges

    John Mahama secretly married Prof Jane Opoku Agyeman in 2012 – Chairman Wontumi alleges

    Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, also known as Chairman Wontumi, has made startling accusations against the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama.

    Chairman Wontumi claims that Mahama secretly married Professor Jane Opoku Agyeman in 2012 without the knowledge of his current wife, Lordina Mahama.

    During an interview on Northern Go TV, Chairman Wontumi asserted that the relationship between Mahama and Prof. Jane Opoku Agyeman extends beyond politics and is intimate in nature.

    He asserted, “In 2012, John Mahama married Prof. Jane Opoku Agyeman secretly.”

    “2012, John Mahama married Prof Jane Opoku Agyeman secretly, I’m speaking the gospel fact, so they are husband and wife, they are not flagbearer and running mate, they are deceiving Lordina (Mahama’s wife), “ Chairman Wontumi stated.

    Chairman Wontumi also alleged that Prof. Jane Opoku Agyeman is originally from the Northern Region, not the Central Region as commonly believed.

    He claimed that her birth certificate could serve as proof of her Northern descent and challenged her to make it public if she disputes his claims.

    Watch video below:

  • I won’t apologize for ‘running-mate comment’ – Manhyia South Chairman to Wontumi

    I won’t apologize for ‘running-mate comment’ – Manhyia South Chairman to Wontumi

    The Constituency Chairman of New Patriotic Party (NPP) in Manhyia South, Richard Adjei Mensah Ofori Atta, known as ‘Tom Tom  has declared his stance against apologizing to Bernard Antwi Boasiako, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the party, despite looming legal threats.

    Chairman Wontumi, as he’s commonly referred to, expressed outrage over accusations made by Ofori Atta regarding alleged interference in the NPP’s running mate selection process.

    Ofori Atta had insinuated that Wontumi was involved in trading the party’s vice-presidential slot.

    Wontumi issued a 48-hour ultimatum for Ofori Atta to substantiate the claims or retract and apologise, warning of legal action otherwise.

    “While the public is urged to dismiss and disregard these unfounded claims as they are bereft of, and lack, substance, Mr. Richard Adjei Mensah Ofori-Atta is given 48 hours to either substantiate these allegations or render an unqualified apology to Chairman Bernard Antwi-Boasiako and the Party in the Ashanti Region.

    “There would be no other option than to take legal action against him should he fail to do so,” the statement asserted.

    In response, Ofori Atta remained resolute, stating that he won’t apologise to the Regional Chairman.

    He affirmed his readiness to face Wontumi in court, emphasising his stance until the ultimatum expires.

    “For now, I am waiting for the so-called 48-hour ultimatum to elapse and take it from there,” he added.

    The confrontation underscores tensions within the NPP, raising questions about internal dynamics and the handling of allegations within the party.

  • Emotional Wontumi couldn’t control himself, broke down in uncontrollable tears at John Kumah’s house

    Emotional Wontumi couldn’t control himself, broke down in uncontrollable tears at John Kumah’s house

    On Saturday, March 9, 2024, prominent members of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) paid a visit to the residence of the late Member of Parliament for Ejisu, Dr. John Kumah, to offer their condolences to his family.

    A video from the visit depicts the emotional state of the party’s Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, also known as Wontumi.

    In the footage, the regional chairman is visibly overcome with emotion, shedding uncontrollable tears and requiring assistance to move as he interacts with the bereaved family.

    Dr. John Ampontuah Kumah passed away on Thursday, March 7, 2024, at the age of 45.

    Associates of the late Deputy Minister for Finance have indicated that he passed away while en route from Kumasi to Accra for further medical treatment in Germany.

    Though the exact cause of the MP’s demise remains uncertain, there have been allegations suggesting that John Kumah may have been poisoned prior to his passing.

    According to Captain Smart, the host of Onua FM’s morning show, both the MP and Chairman Wontumi were allegedly poisoned sometime in the latter part of the previous year.

  • They will not stop until Chairman Wontumi dies – Oheneba Nana Asiedu claims

    They will not stop until Chairman Wontumi dies – Oheneba Nana Asiedu claims

    The morning show host of Wontumi Tv and Radio, Oheneba Nana Asiedu, has claimed that the reported attacks against the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, will continue until he meets his untimely death.

    In an interview on Wontumi TV, Oheneba narrated what he believes to be the account of how Chairman Wontumi and the late Deputy Finance Minister and Ejisu MP, Dr John Kumah were poisoned during their stay in Tamale while aiding the Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia’s campaign.

    According to him, Chairman Wontumi was the intended victim in a food poisoning incident that he believes resulted in the tragic death of former Deputy Finance Minister John Kumah.

    He indicated that for the betterment of the party, all sorts of untoward actions are executed, and some members are abandoned and made to bear the brunt of certain actions they are either aware of or not.

    He therefore believes that the alleged attacks against Chairman Wontumi will continue since he remains alive after the reported poisoning attack.

    “People are losing their businesses and family but others say for the sake of the party. I am saying Chairman Wontumi was the target. They will not stop too. That’s why I’m saying Chairman Wontumi’s father should advise his son. His wife and children should advise him because they will not stop and have not stopped. They will do it again,” he said.

    Deputy Finance Minister, Dr John Kumah, passed away on Thursday, March 7, 2024.

    According to reports, he collapsed in his office and was swiftly transported to a hospital for medical treatment.

    Subsequently, due to a decline in his condition, he was flown out of the country.

    Sources say he was flown back into the country to aid his recovery. The cause of his death is currently unknown.

  • An NPP big wig angrily chastised Chairman Wontumi for aiding Bawumia-John Kumah ticket

    An NPP big wig angrily chastised Chairman Wontumi for aiding Bawumia-John Kumah ticket

    The morning show host of Wontumi Tv and Radio, Oheneba Nana Asiedu, has alleged that the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, came under attack for allegedly attempting to put the late Deputy Finance Minister Dr John Kumah in the limelight for the running mate role.

    Oheneba Nana Asiedu noted that while in Tamale to aid Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia’s political campaign, Chairman Wontumi received a call from a high-profile personality of the NPP.

    According to him, the purpose of the call was to question Chairman Wontumi over the presence of John Kumah in Tamale.

    “In Tamale, a high-profile personality of this party called Chairman Wontumi, fighting him that why Chairman Wontumi had send John Kumah to Tamale and projecting him there to become running mate.”

    Oheneba Nana Asiedu made this revelation on Wontumi radio following the death of John Kumah on Thursday, March 7, which he linked to the alleged poisoning case in October last year.

    “No one can tell me that this incident that happened is not related or has no link to the running mate,” he insisted.

    Oheneba is of the assertion that the late John Kumah and Chairman Wontumi were poisoned during their stay in Tamale in October 2023. He believes the Guinea fowl meat the duo consumed had been poisoned.

  • Mahama is a candidate for treason; Akufo-Addo has given him a presidential pardon – Chairman Wontumi

    Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has asserted that former President John Dramani Mahama would currently be behind bars if it weren’t for President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s commitment to maintaining peace.

    In an interview on Wontumi FM, Chairman Wontumi alleged that Mahama is accountable for various acts of corruption during his tenure, including the AirBus scandal.

    He emphasised that President Akufo-Addo’s decision not to prosecute Mahama is driven by a desire for national harmony.

    “… John Mahama, if not for the fact that Akufo-Addo has ruled Ghana for there to be peace, you should be in jail by now. If not for the fact that Akufo-Addo wants peace to prevail, just as we see former presidents being locked up in countries like Pakistan, the same thing should have happened here,” Chairman Wontumi stated in Twi.

    He further added, “If you look at the Air Bus scandal, the Ameri deal, and the other corruption scandals, John Mahama should have been jailed. You (Mahama) are a candidate for treason. It is Akufo-Addo who has given him a presidential pardon, that is why he is walking around freely.”

    It is noteworthy that former President John Dramani Mahama has not been implicated in any investigations related to the Air Bus scandal, both domestically and internationally, during the eight years of the Akufo-Addo government.

    About the Airbus scandal:

    The Airbus scandal involved allegations that the European aircraft manufacturer paid bribes in Ghana during the sale of three military aircraft.

    Former President John Dramani Mahama was implicated, with the former Special Prosecutor, Martin Amidu, alleging that he was the “Government Official One” mentioned in the scandal. Mahama denied the allegations and challenged Amidu to prosecute him if he could provide evidence.

  • ‘Poisoned’ Wontumi was in boxer shorts and had vomited everywhere – Radio host reveals

    ‘Poisoned’ Wontumi was in boxer shorts and had vomited everywhere – Radio host reveals

    A radio presenter with Wontumi Radio, Oheneba Asiedu, has stated that the Ashanti Regional Chairman for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Bosiako(Chairman Wontumi), has detailed the series of incidents Wontumi faced after consuming the poisoned guinea fowl meat (akomfem).

    He recounted that shortly after Wontumi completed the meal, he received numerous missed calls from him.

    According to him, he swiftly went to Wontumi’s door and knocked for over three minutes.

    He stressed that when Wontumi eventually opened the door, he was in his boxer shorts and had vomited extensively throughout his room, including the bed, floor, and washroom.

    “On 22nd October Myself, Wontumi, John Kumah and Kwaku Marfo were at Tamale to assist Dr. Bawumia over there with his campaign. When we got to Mariam Hotel, someone brought them akonfeh and they ate it.

    “At 1am Chairman called my phone fifteen (15) times and when I returned his calls, he couldn’t pick up. I knocked his door for more than 3 minutes and when he finally came to open the door, he was in his boxer shorts and had vomited all over the place- on his bed, floor and the washroom”, Oheneba Nana Asiedu said.

    “John Kumah told me he only ate small portion of the meat (akonfeh) but Chairman ate a lot,” he added.

    This revelation comes in the aftermath of the death of the deputy finance minister, John Kumah.

    Revealing details surrounding John Kumah’s death, Oheneba Asidu explained that Wontumi and the deceased succumbed to a food poisoning incident while at Mariam Hotel in Tamale.

    “John Kumah did not die, he has been killed for what I know and what I saw. John Kumah may not be perfect but is this how he is supposed to die?,” he added.

     Additionally, he mentioned that the poisoned guinea fowl meat, commonly known as ‘akonfem’, was presented by a stranger to the duo was meant to end the life of Chairman Wontumi.

    Unfortunately, Chairman Wontumi started reacting to the poison after he, together with John Kumah had consumed the food.

    Oheneba Asidu who is also the morning host of Wontumi Radio, John Kumah, he said, did not show any sign of unfitness unlike Wontumi.

    He added that certain individuals within the New Patriotic Party (NPP) are hiding behind the party to terminate the lives of innocent individuals.

    “People are being evil in the name of the party and I am saying this, the possible names we are hearing concerning Bawumia’s running mate, if Dr Bawumia mentions his name it will be an insult and a stab at the Chairman. 

    John Kumah passed away on Thursday, March 7, 2024.

    According to reports, he collapsed in his office and was swiftly transported to a hospital for medical treatment. Subsequently, due to a decline in his condition, he was flown out of the country.

    The cause of his death is currently unknown and has taken the country by shock.

    The Member of Parliament for Ejisu in the Ashanti Region, Dr. Kumah, was known for his diverse roles as a Lawyer, Entrepreneur, and dedicated Politician.