Oheneba Aseidu, a close associate of the Ashanti Regional Chairman for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Chairman Wontumi, has purported that the death of deputy finance minister, John Kumah is untimely.
Speaking on Wontumi Radio, Oheneba Asiedu stated that, John Kumah was killed as a result of his close relationship with Chairman Wontumi.
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.
He is survived by Apostle Mrs. Lilian Kumah, and six children.
Poisoned 'Akomfem': Blow-by-blow account of how John Kumah, Chairman Wontumi were allegedly poisoned
Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, alias Chairman Wontumi expressed deep sorrow over the untimely passing of John Kumah, a prominent figure in the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and Member of Parliament for Ejisu.
Describing Kumah as a “loyal friend and faithful brother,” Wontumi reflected on their bond and highlighted Kumah’s exceptional qualities that will be dearly missed in the Ashanti Region.
The Chairman reminisced about Kumah’s unwavering support during his own health crisis months ago, emphasising the profound impact of the deputy minister’s friendship.
Wontumi shared the mixed emotions of disbelief and shock upon hearing the tragic news, drawing poignant parallels to the recent challenges he faced.
On Thursday, March 7, 2024, Ghana was shaken by the sudden death of Deputy Minister for Finance, John Kumah.
An aide revealed that he succumbed to the effects of poisoning after a months-long struggle for survival at Suhum Government Hospital.
A rising star in the NPP, Kumah served as the MP for Ejisu and was considered a potential running mate for Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
Kumah’s impressive career spanned entrepreneurship, preaching, and law, with his most recent role as CEO of the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme.
Survived by his wife, Apostle Mrs. Lilian Kumah, and six children, Kumah’s passing leaves a significant void in both the NPP and the nation.
Chairman Wontumi’s heartfelt farewell to his dear friend and brother, John Kumah, underscored the profound impact of this tragic loss on the Ashanti Region and the entire political landscape.
Read Chairman Wontumi’s full statement below:
My good friend and brother John Kumah. My heart is heavy. My eyes are full of tears. I am devastated and distraught. I have been struggling to find the appropriate words to describe how I feel right now, because I know how you would have reacted if I were in your position. It is a mixed feeling of disbelief and shock. And this unfortunate news takes me back to some few months ago.
I remember how you stood by my side and ensured that I survived at the time that I was helplessly dying. Little did I know that I was going to survive only for me to be confronted with this devastating news of your passing months later.
I have lost a loyal friend and faithful brother whose loss is simply irreplaceable, not only to me, but to the region as well.
Rest well, my brother. We will surely meet in heaven one day.
The morning show host of Wontumi Tv and Radio, Oheneba Nana Asiedu, has provided details of how Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, was taken care of after being poisoned while assisting Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia’s campaign in Tamale.
Oheneba noted that on October 23, he woke up at dawn to see 15 missed calls from Chairman Wontumi after he ate ‘poisoned’ Guinea fowl meat with the late Deputy Finance Minister Dr John Kumah. He then proceeded to his place (Modern Hotel) to find out the issue after failing to reach him via phone.
“I woke up around 1 am check on what Chairman would wear. I had seen Chairman’s calls about 15 of them. I tried calling. I asked Marfo if he had gotten calls from Chairman. He saw 2 missed calls and tried reaching Chairman but no response. So I went to Chairman’s place.”
He revealed that he knocked for about 3 to 5 minutes until Chairman Wontumi came to open the door.
When Chairman opened the door, he was just in boxers and not in a good state, he said.
“You could tell he had crawled and opened the door. He had thrown up on his bed and the ground. He had vomited in the washroom.”
Oheneba said he reached out to a member of Dr Bawumia’s team, who got some members of the Vice President’s medical team to assist.
“I called Kamar, he is part of Bawumia’s team. So he called someone. So a top doctor of Bawumia and two other nurses came.
Instantly, they placed about 7 drips of water on Chairman and injected him,” he said, adding that “I heard the doctor say they suspect food poisoning and so they are going to treat them on food poisoning.”
According to him, John Kumah felt he was okay, so he was not treated.
“It was only Chairman who was treated. John Kumah’s reaction was not like Chairman’s,” he reiterated.
But it took the next day for John Kumah to call for assistance as he saw his condition worsen.
Poisoned 'Akomfem': Blow-by-blow account of how John Kumah, Chairman Wontumi were allegedly poisoned
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), consumed a significant portion of the poisoned guinea fowl meat (akomfem), unlike the late deputy finance Minister, John Kumah.
Oheneba Aseidu who is a close associate ofChairman Wontumi, explained that Wontumi ended up eating the majority of the meat as a result of hunger.
According to him, Wontumi, John Kumah and others were in Tamale to support Vice president, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia’s campaign.
However, Wontumi and the others got home exhausted and hungry.
He revealed that, a few minutes after their arrival at Mariam Hotel, a stranger presented the poisoned meal specifically for the deputy finance minister, John Kumah, and Wontumi.
However, John Kumah only ate a small portion, unlike the latter.
Oheneba Asiedu disclosed that after finishing their meal, Wontumi attempted to contact him without success.
After seeing his missed calls he rushed to Wontumi’s door and knocked over three minutes, emphasizing 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.
The morning show host of Wontumi Tv and Radio, Oheneba Nana Asiedu, has accused the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Northern Regional Financial Secretary of being behind the alleged poisoning attack against the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi and the late Deputy Finance Minister Dr John Kumah.
According to Oheneba Nana Asiedu, after Chairman Wontumi started receiving treatment after throwing up following the Guinea fowl meat he ate with Dr John Kumah, he received an unexpected guest.
In his narration of how the unfortunate incident happened, Mr Asiedu noted that not many knew of the itinerary after a few individuals were brought up to speed on the wellbeing of Chairman Wontumi on October 23, 2023 while at Tamale.
However, a party executive, despite being likely aware that the Vice President’s campaign team had move from Tamale, visited Chairman Wontumi who had just taken ill, together with John Kumah.
The man in a blue suit, he said moved straight to Chairman Wontumi’s room and asked of his wellbeing.
“Around 10am when everyone knows that campaign team moves around 6am, the Veep team has moved so the assumption is that if everyone has left, then Chairman has also left, then a gentleman came there. Straight to Chairman Wontumi’s room. He knocked on the door, he was in a blue suit, I am told he is the Financial Secretary of the party in the region. We didn’t want to open. John Kumah opened the door for him and asked him why, he said he is coming to greet chairman. We told him Chairman had slept.”
“As to how the gentleman knew that the team had moved but Chairman Wontumi was not part, I don’t know. And how he got to know Chairman Wontumi’s room number I don’t know,” he said.
After John Kumah told him Chairman Wontumi was asleep, he left and did not return.
Poisoned 'Akomfem': Blow-by-blow account of how John Kumah, Chairman Wontumi were allegedly poisoned
Oheneba Nana Asiedu made this revelation on Wontumi radio following the death of John Kumah on Thursday, March 7, which has been linked to the alleged poisoning case in October last year.
Additional details are surfacing in the aftermath of the demise of Deputy Finance Minister John Kumah.
Oheneba Asiedu, a close associate of the Ashanti Regional Chairman for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Chairman Wontumi, has claimed that Wontumi fell victim to food poisoning at Mariam Hotel in Tamale, as a result of hunger.
He asserted that a stranger offered the poisoned guinea fowl meat, known as ‘akonfem,’ to John Kumah and Wontumi with the intention of harming the latter.
According to Aseidu, they were in Tamale to support Bawumia but returned late, leading Wontumi to consume a portion of the poisoned guinea fowl meat, unlike John Kumah.
“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,”he added.
Oheneba Aseidu who is also a presenter at Wontumi Radio, stated that after finishing their meal, Wontumi made several unsuccessful attempts to contact him.
In that regard, Mr Aseidu rushed to Wontumi’s door after he had missed several calls from him.
“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. John Kumah told me he only ate small portion of the meat (akomfem) but Chairman ate a lot,” he revealed.
He stated that he knocked at Wontumi’s door for over three minutes, adding that when Wontumi finally opened the door, he was in his boxer shorts and had vomited all over his room, including the bed, floor, and washroom.
Poisoned 'Akomfem': Blow-by-blow account of how John Kumah, Chairman Wontumi were allegedly poisoned
The morning show host of Wontumi Tv and Radio, Oheneba Nana Asiedu, has corroborated reports by his colleague in the media space, Captain Smart, that the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi and the late Deputy Finance Minister Dr John Kumah were poisoned.
In an interview on Wontumi Radio, Oheneba Nana Asiedu, alleged that the duo were poisoned on October 22, 2023, at Tamale, and not Kumasi as earlier reported by Captain Smart, where some NPP members had gathered to aid the campaign of Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia.
“It didn’t happen in Kumasi but Tamale. We were in Tamale, me, Chairman Wontumi, John Kumah and my own brother and one of Chairman Wontumi’s boys, Kwabena Marfo,” he first clarified.
According to him, the team was to move from Tamale to Walewale but due to some delays, they had to return to Tamale. Oheneba noted that he stopped his work to join Chairman Wontumi in Tamale whereas John Kumah moved from Accra to Tamale.
“We returned from the campaign and were to move from Tamale and go to Walewale and move to the North East. But that night, there was a delay with the campaign team because of politics. So we had to come back to Tamale to sleep there.
“Originally, sister Afia was to go with Chairman Wontumi but she couldn’t I don’t know what came on me but I said no, I don’t think Chairman should go to Tamale alone. So I halted my work to go with him. I called Marfo to go with us and he told us he would get back in the evening
John Kumah came from Accra to Tamale. I met Chairman Wontumi at 4am at Asokwa. Marfo came late but we waited for him,” he recounted.
He revealed he had the urge to make some alterations to the rooms they stayed in and what they ate.
“When we got to Tamale, I don’t know what came over me. When we handling the reservation, I switched the room meant for me to Chairman and I made Marfo take Chairman’s room. And I slept in a room for Marfo.
“When it is time for food, I use my name and go for food and bring it to Chairman Wontumi. I take Chairman’s food for Marfo then I take Margo’s food.”
On October 22, 2023, he said they planned to leave Tamale but could not.
“We kept long during our rounds. The original plan was to leave Tamale and sleep at Walewale but we couldn’t.”
This unexpected event he said prevented them from making preparations ahead and had to resolve to the last minute decision taken.
Oheneba stated that he and one Marfo lodged at a different hotel while Chairman Wontumi and John Kumah slept in another, however, still in Tamale.
He narrated, “Because we were leaving, the hotel arrangement was not the best and they told us that Marfo and I should go sleep at Modern Hotel in Tamale so Chairman and John Kumah sleep Marial in Tamale but it were all at the same place.
“John Kumah came alone to meet us at Tamale. Chairman’s room number was 32 and John Kumah’s was 31.”
According to him, upon arrival, Chairman Wontumi and John Kumah were provided the meat of a Guinea fowl.
“When they got to the hotel, someone brought Guinea fowl meat. Only Chairman and John Kumah. It was killed so you can eat.”
He noted that due to the pressure during campaigns, politicians sometimes skip some meals.
“They had not eaten, so they ate it. Under normal circumstances, we all sit and eat together. But because we didn’t know that we would sleep, they couldn’t make enough preparation for us all to eat together. So the Akofem was just for Chairman and John Kumah.
That was when the issue started. They finished eating and went to bed,” he said.
Oheneba noted that on October 23, he woke up at dawn to see 15 missed calls from Chairman Wontumi. He then proceeded to his place to find out the issue after failing to reach him via phone.
“I woke up around 1 am check on what Chairman would wear. I had seen Chairman’s calls about 15 of them. I tried calling. I asked Marfo if he had gotten calls from Chairman. He saw 2 missed calls and tried reaching Chairman but no response. So I went to Chairman’s place.”
He noted that Chairman Wontumi is not one who delays in answering his door.
“I knocked for about 3 to 5 minutes before he came to open the door. When Chairman opened the door, he was just in boxers. You could tell he had crawled and opened the door. He had thrown up on his bed and the ground. He had vomited in the washroom.”
He then went to see John Kumah, who then told him “Chairman ate more of the meat because he was hungry.”
“I just ate a little. John Kumah told me this. So I have thrown up so it’s not like Chairman’s. I had not seen chairman like that ever on that October 23,” he said.
Oheneba said he reached out to a member of Dr Bawumia’s team who got some members of the Vice President’s medical team to assist.
“I called Kamar, he is part of Bawumia’s team. So he called someone. So a top doctor of Bawumia and two other nurses came.
Instantly, they placed about 7 drips of water on Chairman and injected him,” he said, adding that “I heard the doctor say they suspect food poisoning and so they are going to treat them on food poisoning.”
According to him, John Kumah felt he was okay and so he was not treated. “It was only Chairman who was treated. John Kumah’s reaction was not like Chairman’s,” he reiterated.
But it took the next day for John Kumah to call for assistance as he saw his condition worsen.
Poisoned 'Akomfem': Blow-by-blow account of how John Kumah, Chairman Wontumi were allegedly poisoned
“So it was in the evening, around 11pm that he called saying we should allow his driver come to him that he is not well. But he had spoken to his doctor who told him the drugs to get. So we got the drugs
“The John Kumah that I know, from that day till he passed, I’ve never seen him as how he used to be, well and fit,” he added.
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.
Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Chairman Wontumi was the intended victim in a food poisoning incident that resulted in the tragic death of former Deputy Finance Minister John Kumah.
This information was given by Chairman Wontumi’s close associate, Oheneba Nana Asiedu.
Providing insights into the meal shared by Chairman Wontumi and John Kumah before the unfortunate incident, Oheneba revealed on Wontumi TV that a stranger presented them with guinea fowl meat, commonly known as ‘akonfem,’ at Mariam Hotel in Tamale.
He shared that he informed John Kumah, whose hotel room was close to Chairman Wontumi, about the incident.
Oheneba Nana Asiedu continued, stating that he promptly arranged for the medical team of the Vice President, and a doctor and nurse arrived to attend to Chairman Wontumi.
“On 22nd October we 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.
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“John Kumah told me he only ate small portion of the meat (akonfeh) but Chairman ate a lot”.
“The medical team of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia came around to treat Chairman; they gave him six (6) infusion instantly and injections. They said they suspected food poison but John Kumah thought he was fine so he wasn’t treated”, he said.
Controversial legal practitioner, Lawyer Maurice Ampaw, shared a startling revelation about Ghanaian actress and media personality, Nana Ama Mcbrown.
Ampaw narrated an incident during court proceedings when Mcbrown, while still with Despite Media Group, allegedly experienced a moment of extreme nervousness, leading to an unfortunate incident of urination.
The incident unfolded a few years ago when Afia Schwarzenegger, Nana Ama Mcbrown, and UTV faced legal action for statements made on the United Showbiz show, where Afia claimed to have had a romantic involvement with Chairman Wontumi.
Afia Schwarzenegger was issued an arrest warrant, compelling her to spend 10 days in prison and pay GH¢60,000.
Afia’s legal team, led by Adrian Duke Amaning, appeared at the Tema High Court on December 20, 2022, addressing the court for the first time since Afia was out of the country when the lawsuit was initially filed.
Subsequently, Afia and her legal team approached the court a second time, pledging not to defame Chairman Wontumi’s name on any media platform.
During this intense legal battle, Lawyer Maurice Ampaw claimed that Nana Ama Mcbrown, who was present in court, succumbed to extreme nervousness, resulting in an embarrassing incident.
“Were you in court, look, Nana Ama McBrown urinated on herself, Fada Dickson paid huge sums of money, 3 billion, so no one should underestimate my credibility in court.”
Despite Media Group reportedly had to pay a substantial sum of 3 billion old Ghana Cedis as part of the legal resolution.
Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has called for a debate between the two Presidential candidates of the NPP and the NDC.
He wants both Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, the current Vice President, and former President John Dramani Mahama to slug it out at a presidential candidate debate session, where both would articulate their visions and policies to the Ghanaian electorate.
In a recent interview following Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s lecture titled “Ghana’s Next Chapter: Selfless Leadership and Bold Solutions for the Future,” Chairman Wontumi proudly listed the media houses under his ownership and expressed his eagerness for the political discourse.
“I own Wontumi TV in Kumasi. I own Movement TV in Accra. I own Western Diamond in Takoradi,” Chairman Wontumi asserted.
He emphasized the importance of such debates in allowing candidates to present their achievements and future plans directly to the Ghanaian people.
“It is not about talking. It is too cheap for people to do propaganda,” Chairman Wontumi remarked.
Chairman Wontumi extended his invitation for a debate to the running mates of the presidential candidates as well, pledging to host these debates on his media networks.
He emphasized the importance of providing a neutral platform for robust discussions to inform voters ahead of the upcoming elections.
In praising Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Chairman Wontumi described him as a “God-given gift” to Ghana, underscoring his belief in Bawumia’s leadership qualities and contributions to the nation.
Ashanti Regional Chairman of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Wontumi, has issued a rallying cry to defeated parliamentary aspirants, urging them to actively contribute to the party’s campaign efforts ahead of the 2024 general election.
In a closed-door meeting with candidates who contested in the party’s parliamentary primaries on Monday, February 5, 2024, Chairman Wontumi expressed appreciation for their participation while emphasizing the importance of unity and collective action in securing victory for the NPP.
“Our party has always recognized those who work hard, so, if you lost in the primaries, please go back to your constituency and support the one who won,” Wontumi stated, highlighting the need for solidarity within the party ranks.
He assured the aspirants that active participation in the campaign would not go unnoticed, hinting at potential rewards under a future NPP government led by Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
“The Vice President will definitely reward all of us in his government if the NPP breaks the 8 ‘Isha Allah’,” Wontumi affirmed, referencing the party’s aspiration to secure a third consecutive term in office.
Highlighting the importance of unity and cohesion within the party, Wontumi expressed confidence in the NPP’s ability to secure victory in the upcoming election. He emphasized the party’s commitment to building a better Ghana and asserted that the NDC posed no threat to their electoral prospects.
“As for the NDC, they are not the hope, so when we move into the election with a united force, we’ll win,” Wontumi declared, exuding optimism about the party’s electoral prospects.
The call to action comes following the conclusion of the NPP’s internal elections on January 27, 2024, which saw the election of parliamentary candidates in constituencies where the party has sitting MPs. Notably, 28 sitting MPs lost their bid for re-election, signaling a potential shift in dynamics within the party.
With Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia elected as the party’s presidential candidate in November 2023, the NPP gears up for a spirited campaign as it seeks to retain power and continue its agenda of development and progress for the people of Ghana.
Legal expert, has explained his reluctance to respond to the summons from the Kumasi Traditional Council, asserting that he has already extended his apology through a formal letter.
During an interview on Kasapa FM, he revealed that, before the situation escalated, he had written a letter through Wontumi TV’s management expressing regret for any offense caused by his comments.
Mr Ampaw stated that he also personally apologized to the Kumasi chiefs during a broadcast on Asempa FM.
“I have already apologised to the Kumasi Traditional Council through a letter over the my derogatory remarks I made towards them so I don’t see the essence of going there I have already apologised to them, all those criticising me most of you lack manners, I have issued an apology in a form of letter through Chairman Wontumi’s management. I stated that whatever remarks which by anyway has offended elders they should forgive me. That letter went earlier before we were summoned. I have personally offered an apology on Asempa FM,” he added.
He urged his critics to refrain from further criticism, emphasizing that he has already taken the necessary steps to address the situation.
The Kumasi Traditional Council issued a one-week ultimatum to the NPP leadership to present Chairman Wontumi, also known as Bernard Antwi Boasiako, before the Manhyia Palace.
This directive follows alleged derogatory remarks made by Chairman Wontumi about the Asantehene approximately two weeks ago.
Chairman Wontumi was expected to appear alongside Lawyer Maurice Ampaw, who is similarly accused of making derogatory statements on radio.
The lawyer strongly criticized the chiefs of the Ashanti Kingdom for summoning Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, also known as Chairman Wontumi.
During an appearance on the ‘Mmra ne Abrabo’ show on Wontumi TV, the lawyer accused the chiefs of engaging in questionable activities such as theft and girlfriend snatching.
He contended that these chiefs are unworthy of discussing Chairman Wontumi, citing allegations of multiple land sales among them.
As of now, Chairman Wontumi together with some officials from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) honored the summons from the chiefs.
The Chief Priest of the Antoa Nyamaa ‘deity,’ tasked with reversing the curses placed on Nana Kwaku Duah, Chief of Kokoso, by Bernard Antwi Boasiko (Chairman Wontumi), the Ashanti regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has refused to perform the necessary rituals.
This comes after Chairman Wontumi denied the allegations made against him by Nana Kwaku Duah regarding disparaging comments about Asantehene Otumfuo Osei II.
Wontumi’s denial, presented to the Antoa shrine dispute resolution Chiefs, created an impression of resolution by the Kumasi Traditional Council (KTC), which Nana Kwaku Duah and the Chief Priest found unsatisfactory.
Otumfuo’s Brempong, Nana Kwaku Duah, maintained that Wontumi had made the disparaging statement before about 40 people in the vetting room.
The Antoa Nyamaa Chief Priest, expressing discomfort with the handling of the case by the Kumasi Traditional Council (KTC), refused to reverse the curse, citing a lack of full disclosure of the truth during the unsatisfactory resolution at Manhyia Palace on January 29, 2024.
The Chief Priest directed the delegation to go back and resolve the case again, urging the guilty party to confess for forgiveness.
Following the Chief Priest’s decision, some individuals in the delegation knelt to beg Nana Kwaku Duah to allow the Chief Priest to reverse the curses. However, he objected, insisting that the entire truth must be revealed to vindicate his initial stance on the matter.
The delegation included Bernard Antwi Boasiako, Nana Nkansah Boadu (Agric Nzemahene), Nana Kwaku Duah (Chief of Kokoso), and Baffour Kantankrakyi (Otumfuo’s linguist).
On Monday, January 29, Kokosohene, Nana Kwaku Duah, had the opportunity to tell his side of the story in relation to the controversy between himself and Ashanti Regional New Patriotic Party (NPP) Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, known as Chairman Wontumi.
Chairman Wontumi is said to have engaged in a banter with the Kokosohene, who is also the Chairman of the Council of Elders at Manhiya, during the vetting of some party individuals.
Later, it was reported that Chairman Wontumi had cursed the Kokosohene.
At Manhyia Palace on Monday, the Kokosohene recounted the genesis of the controversy. But in his narration, Chairman Wontumi could not control his facial expressions, which communicated astonishment and disagreement with the oration of events.
According to Nana Kwaku Duah, he spotted an argument between Chairman Wontumi and a party Executive from Manhyia. In his attempt to calm the raging Wontumi, the Bernard Antwi Boasiako boasted of having his own kingdom.
“This whole issue is. We attended an NPP vetting, I am the Council of Elders Chairman, Manhyia so I had to be there. I am the vetting committee chair at Manhyia.
“When we arrived, an MP just left after being vetted. So a while later, we saw our Organizer arrive. He came to sit with the Chairman to tell him something.
“We couldn’t here what they were discussing but all of a sudden, they started arguing. So we tried to bring peace and so I told the Organizer, that even the Regional Chairman is sitting here so how do you go and argue with him. So I sacked him.
“So I was trying to calm the tension and so I was engaging our constituency Chairman who was sitting close to me. I told him, Chairman, your brother is telling you to stop and you are not paying attention to him.
“See, nobody can force me to do anything. Even if the Otumfuo says something I don’t agree with, I will let him know.”
A look at Chairman Wontumi at this point suggests bewilderment as he ponders over how such a scenario will pun out as the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II is known to be the man with the highest authority in the Ashanti Kingdom.
The Kokosohene continued: “So he said it for the first time and left. Then he returned and said I have created my kingdom here. So when he said that, I told him, I will not sit here for you to say anything you want. Although I am here for the vetting, I am a representative of the Otumfuo, and will not allow you to say that.
“So we argued for about 15 to 20 minutes. The women’s organizer, Nana Ama, got up and said it is NPP kingdom. I replied, saying NPP has no kingdom, and it ended there.”
Later, reports had it that Chairman Wontumi had cursed the Kokosohene. Responding to this claim, Nana Kwaku Duah confirmed that Wontumi swore an oath against his life.
He noted that this took place during a phone call among Justin Frimpong Kodua, NPP’s General Secretary, Chairman Wontumi and himself.
“Later, the Samaheme asked me and I briefed him. I was there and all of a sudden the General Secretary called me inquiring about what had happened because they are demanding that I bring Chairman Wontumi.
“So I told him that I engaged Samaheme and briefed him. Then he told me that then this is no issue and he proceeded to let me know that Chairman was on the line so I should speak to him.
“When he joined, he didn’t even allow General Secretary talk. I then told Secretary to allow him.When he opened his mouth, he said if it emerges that he didn’t say what I’m alleging he said, Antoa should kill me and use my family members for Thanksgiving,” he said.
After all was said and done, the Kumasi Traditional Council pardoned Chairman Wontumi of any allegations levelled against him. This follows Wontumi insistence of being innocent.
On Monday, January 29, Kokosohene, Nana Kwaku Duah, had the opportunity to tell his side of the story in relation to the controversy between himself and Ashanti Regional New Patriotic Party (NPP) Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, known as Chairman Wontumi.
Chairman Wontumi is said to have engaged in a banter with the Kokosohene, who is also the Chairman of the Council of Elders at Manhiya, during the vetting of some party individuals.
Later, it was reported that Chairman Wontumi had cursed the Kokosohene.
At Manhyia Palace on Monday, he recounted the genesis of the controversy. According to Nana Kwaku Duah, he spotted an argument between Chairman Wontumi and a party Executive from Manhyia. In his attempt to calm the raging Wontumi, the Bernard Antwi Boasiako boasted of having his own kingdom.
“This whole issue is. We attended an NPP vetting, I am the Council of Elders Chairman, Manhyia so I had to be there. I am the vetting committee chair at Manhyia.
“When we arrived, an MP just left after being vetted. So a while later, we saw our Organizer arrive. He came to sit with the Chairman to tell him something.
“We couldn’t here what they were discussing but all of a sudden, they started arguing. So we tried to bring peace and so I told the Organizer, that even the Regional Chairman is sitting here so how do you go and argue with him. So I sacked him.
“So I was trying to calm the tension and so I was engaging our constituency Chairman who was sitting close to me. I told him, Chairman, your brother is telling you to stop and you are not paying attention to him.
“See, nobody can force me to do anything. Even if the Otumfuo says something I don’t agree with, I will let him know. So he said it for the first time and left. Then he returned and said I have created my kingdom here. So when he said that, I told him, I will not sit here for you to say anything you want. Although I am here for the vetting, I am a representative of the Otumfuo, and will not allow you to say that.
“So we argued for about 15 to 20 minutes. The women’s organizer, Nana Ama, got up and said it is NPP kingdom. I replied, saying NPP has no kingdom, and it ended there.”
Later, reports had it that Chairman Wontumi had cursed the Kokosohene. Responding to this claim, Nana Kwaku Duah confirmed that Wontumi swore an oath against his life.
He noted that this took place during a phone call among Justin Frimpong Kodua, NPP’s General Secretary, Chairman Wontumi and himself.
“Later, the Samaheme asked me and I briefed him. I was there and all of a sudden the General Secretary called me inquiring about what had happened because they are demanding that I bring Chairman Wontumi.
“So I told him that I engaged Samaheme and briefed him. Then he told me that then this is no issue and he proceeded to let me know that Chairman was on the line so I should speak to him.
“When he joined, he didn’t even allow General Secretary talk. I then told Secretary to allow him.When he opened his mouth, he said if it emerges that he didn’t say what I’m alleging he said, Antoa should kill me and use my family members for Thanksgiving,” he said.
After all was said and done, the Kumasi Traditional Council pardoned Chairman Wontumi of any allegations levelled against him. This follows Wontumi insistence of being innocent.
Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi, has indicated that to prove his innocence after being accused of disrespecting the Ashanti kingdom, he swore an oath.
Chairman Wontumi for the umpteenth time, pleaded innocent over allegations of derogatory remarks against the Ashanti Kingdom.
He arrived at Manyhia Palace on Monday to engage members of the Kumasi Traditional Council where he admitted to going to the extreme in his attempt to show his loyalty to the Ashanti Kingdom.
“Everybody knows that I am tough on politicians, but I can never disrespect royalties. I can never say those things. It is not true that I spew those words. That is why I decided to swear and let the outcome of my oath determine my innocence,” he said.
Chairman Wontumi has been on the wanted list of the second-highest decision-making body of the Asante Kingdom, comprising traditional leaders.
On Thursday, January 22, 2024, the Kumasi Traditional Council directed the NPP, led by its General Secretary, Justin Frimpong Kodua, to produce Chairman Wontumi for an appearance regarding alleged derogatory remarks against the Asantehene.
This directive follows a confrontation between Mr. Antwi Boasiako and the Kokosohene, Nana Kwaku Dua, during the recent vetting of parliamentary aspirants in the Ashanti region.
Subsequently, Kokosohene, Nana Kwaku Dua accused Chairman Wontumi of cursing him by refencing Antoa during a phone call with NPP General Secretary, Justin Frimpong Kodua (JFK).
Despite Chairman Wontumi’s denial of the accusations, he was invited by the traditional council for a hearing, which he failed to attend citing health reasons.
The NPP national leadership, seeking more time, appeared before the Council and was instructed to ensure Chairman Wontumi’s presence within one week.
And before the Council today, he reiterated his earlier submission that he never insulted the Ashanti kingdom as alleged.
Following his statement, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has been cleared of allegations of disrespecting the Ashanti stool.
Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has been cleared of allegations of disrespecting the Ashanti stool.
Chairman Wontumi had been accused of making some derogatory remarks against the Ashanti Kingdom and Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II. Following the remarks, Chairman Wontumi had been on the wanted list of the Kumasi Traditional Council.
Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi, has indicated that to prove his innocence after being accused of disrespecting the Ashanti kingdom, he swore an oath.
Chairman Wontumi for the umpteenth time, pleaded innocent over allegations of derogatory remarks against the Ashanti Kingdom.
He arrived at Manyhia Palace on Monday to engage members of the Kumasi Traditional Council where he admitted to going to the extreme in his attempt to show his loyalty to the Ashanti Kingdom.
“Everybody knows that I am tough on politicians, but I can never disrespect royalties. I can never say those things. It is not true that I spew those words. That is why I decided to swear and let the outcome of my oath determine my innocence,” he said.
Chairman Wontumi has been on the wanted list of the second-highest decision-making body of the Asante Kingdom, comprising traditional leaders.
On Thursday, January 22, 2024, the Kumasi Traditional Council directed the NPP, led by its General Secretary, Justin Frimpong Kodua, to produce Chairman Wontumi for an appearance regarding alleged derogatory remarks against the Asantehene.
This directive follows a confrontation between Mr. Antwi Boasiako and the Kokosohene, Nana Kwaku Dua, during the recent vetting of parliamentary aspirants in the Ashanti region.
Subsequently, Kokosohene, Nana Kwaku Dua accused Chairman Wontumi of cursing him by refencing Antoa during a phone call with NPP General Secretary, Justin Frimpong Kodua (JFK).
Despite Chairman Wontumi’s denial of the accusations, he was invited by the traditional council for a hearing, which he failed to attend citing health reasons.
The NPP national leadership, seeking more time, appeared before the Council and was instructed to ensure Chairman Wontumi’s presence within one week.
And before the Council today, he reiterated his earlier submission that he never insulted the Ashanti kingdom as alleged.
Following his statement, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has been cleared of allegations of disrespecting the Ashanti stool.
Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi, has for the umpteenth time pleaded innocent over allegations of derogatory remarks against the Ashanti Kingdom.
Chairman Wontumi on Monday arrived at Manyhia Palace to engage members of the Kumasi Traditional Council over the aforesaid claim.
Chairman Wontumi has been on the wanted list of the second-highest decision-making body of the Asante Kingdom, comprising traditional leaders.
On Thursday, January 22, 2024, the Kumasi Traditional Council directed the NPP, led by its General Secretary, Justin Frimpong Kodua, to produce Chairman Wontumi for an appearance regarding alleged derogatory remarks against the Asantehene.
This directive follows a confrontation between Mr. Antwi Boasiako and the Kokosohene, Nana Kwaku Dua, during the recent vetting of parliamentary aspirants in the Ashanti region.
Despite Chairman Wontumi’s denial of the accusations, he was invited by the traditional council for a hearing, which he failed to attend citing health reasons.
The NPP national leadership, seeking more time, appeared before the Council and was instructed to ensure Chairman Wontumi’s presence within one week.
And before the Council today, he reiterated his earlier submission that he never insulted the Ashanti kingdom as alleged.
“Everybody knows that I am tough on politicians, but I can never disrespect royalties. I can never say those things. It is not true that I spew those words. That is why I decided to swear and let the outcome of my oath determine my innocence,” he said.
Following his statement, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has been cleared of allegations of disrespecting the Ashanti stool.
Kumasi Traditional Council has warned the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP),Chairman Wontumi to desist from mentioning the word kingdom in his language , wherever he finds himself speaking.
“I kindly request that you speak positively about the Asantehene whenever you discuss him. If you need to mention him, please do so for a good reason. As you know, the Asantehene is the only king with a kingdom in Ghana, specifically in the Ashanti region.
Therefore, my advice is to avoid using the term ‘kingdom’ in your language whenever you speak,” a member of the traditional council warned Wontumi.
This comes after Chairman Wontumi appeared before the Kumasi Traditional Council, i.e., the second-highest decision-making body within the Asante Kingdom, after being summoned for allegedly making some derogatory remarks about the Asantehene during the vetting of parliamentary aspirants inManhyia South, a constituency in Kumasi, Ashanti Region.
Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has been cleared of allegations of disrespecting the Ashanti stool.
Chairman Wontumi had been accused of making some derogatory remarks against the Ashanti Kingdom and Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II. Following the remarks, Chairman Wontumi had been on the wanted list of the Kumasi Traditional Council.
Earlier, he was scheduled to meet the Council; however, due to ill health, as disclosed by the Leadership of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), he was unable to do so. An ultimatum for Mr. Wontumi to appear before the council by January 29, 2024, was issued, of which he honored.
It was at the January 29 meeting with the chiefs that Chairman Wontumi was cleared of any wrongdoing.
A video shared by Kumasi-based Oyerepa TV showed the Chiefs addressing the matter. In the said video, one of the chiefs argued in favor of Wontumi and further cleared him of any wrongdoing.
He further cautioned the accuser, Kokosuhene, Nana Kwaku Duah, to refrain from bringing political issues to the Manhyia Palace.
“The constitution says that chiefs should refrain from active politics… when the comments were being made Nana Kokosohene should have left the moment, he heard Wontumi say that he cannot even challenge a statement made by the Okyeame – he shouldn’t have sat there,” the chief said in Twi.
The chief also said that Wontumi limited himself to a political kingdom which means his statement was only about the NPP and not Asantehene and the Asantehene.
A video on social media platform, X, indicates that Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi, has arrived at Manyhia Palace to engage members of the Kumasi Traditional Council on allegations of derogatory remarks levelled against him.
Chairman Wontumi has been on the wanted list of the second-highest decision-making body of the Asante Kingdom, comprising traditional leaders.
On Thursday, January 22, 2024, the Kumasi Traditional Council directed the NPP, led by its General Secretary, Justin Frimpong Kodua, to produce Chairman Wontumi for an appearance regarding alleged derogatory remarks against the Asantehene.
This directive follows a confrontation between Mr. Antwi Boasiako and the Kokosohene, Nana Kwaku Dua, during the recent vetting of parliamentary aspirants in the Ashanti region.
Despite Chairman Wontumi’s denial of the accusations, he was invited by the traditional council for a hearing, which he failed to attend citing health reasons.
The NPP national leadership, seeking more time, appeared before the Council and was instructed to ensure Chairman Wontumi’s presence within one week.
An invitation letter signed by the Registrar of the Council, Kwame Adusei Agyemang, has been issued to Nananom for the meeting scheduled on Monday, January 29, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. Chairman Wontumi, despite citing health issues for missing the initial invitation, was seen at the NPP’s Parliamentary Primaries on Saturday, January 27, 2024, claiming to be in good health.
The attendance of Chairman Wontumi at Monday’s meeting earlier in the day was in doubt. But reports indicate that he is with a delegation including the Minister of Parliamentary affairs, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, NPP National Chairman Stephen Ntim, and the party’s General Secretary Justin Frimpong Koduah (JFK), at Manhyia.
Chairman Wontumi has arrived at Manhyia Palace.
The delegation that accompanied him to meet the chiefs included the minister of Parliamentary affairs, Osei Kyei Mensah, NPP National Chairman Stephen Ntim, and the party’s General Secretary Justin Koduah Frimpong.#GHOneNews… pic.twitter.com/bi5i0PFTHV
Members of the Kumasi Traditional Council have been summoned to a crucial meeting, which will determine the fate of Bernard Antwi Boasiako, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), widely known as Chairman Wontumi.
Chairman Wontumi has been on the wanted list of the second-highest decision-making body of the Asante Kingdom, comprising traditional leaders.
On Thursday, January 22, 2024, the Kumasi Traditional Council directed the NPP, led by its General Secretary, Justin Frimpong Kodua, to produce Chairman Wontumi for an appearance regarding alleged derogatory remarks against the Asantehene.
This directive follows a confrontation between Mr. Antwi Boasiako and the Kokosohene, Nana Kwaku Dua, during the recent vetting of parliamentary aspirants in the Ashanti region.
Despite Chairman Wontumi‘s denial of the accusations, he was invited by the traditional council for a hearing, which he failed to attend citing health reasons.
The NPP national leadership, seeking more time, appeared before the Council and was instructed to ensure Chairman Wontumi’s presence within one week.
An invitation letter signed by the Registrar of the Council, Kwame Adusei Agyemang, has been issued to Nananom for the meeting scheduled on Monday, January 29, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. Chairman Wontumi, despite citing health issues for missing the initial invitation, was seen at the NPP’s Parliamentary Primaries on Saturday, January 27, 2024, claiming to be in good health.
The attendance of Chairman Wontumi at Monday’s meeting remains uncertain.
The Kumasi Traditional Council will reportedly convene a significant meeting today, Monday, January 29, 2024, which could determine the future of the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi, in the Asante Kingdom.
Chairman Wontumi has been embroiled in controversy and found himself on the ‘wanted list’ of the second-highest decision-making body of the Kingdom, following alleged derogatory remarks against the Asantehene during a recent encounter with the Kokosohene, Nana Kwaku Dua, at a parliamentary aspirants’ vetting in the Ashanti region.
Despite denying the accusations, Chairman Wontumiwas summoned by the traditional council for a hearing, which he failed to attend citing health reasons. A regular panelist at Wontumi Radio, Lawyer Maurice Ampaw was also summoned to appear before the Council today in response to insults Ampaw allegedly rained on chiefs of the land.
The NPP national leadership, who responded to the summons and pleaded on behalf of Chairman Wontumi for more time, was directed to ensure his appearance within a week.
Following an unqualified apology rendered by Wontumi Media to the Kumasi Traditional Council over derogatory comments, a news report on www.wontumionline.com suggested that the Asantehene had directed the council to discontinue the case.
However, media reports indicate that the council will reconvene today to deliberate on Chairman Wontumi’s fate.
According to JoyNews, an invitation letter signed by the Registrar of the Council, Kwame Adusei Agyemang, informed Nananom of the scheduled sitting, urging attendance.
Despite Chairman Wontumi’s previous failure to honor the invitation on health grounds, he was reportedly seen in the Bantama Constituency during the NPP’s Parliamentary Primaries on Saturday, January 27, 2024, where he claimed to be in good health.
While it remains uncertain if Chairman Wontumi will attend Monday’s meeting, sources at the Manhyia Palace suggest that the traditional rulers are prepared to make a decision with or without his presence.
The Kumasi Traditional Council, being the largest traditional council in Ghana, holds significant influence as the second-largest decision-making body after the Asanteman Council, with members comprising chiefs from 77 suburbs of Kumasi. Acting President Bantamahene, Baffuor Owusu Amankwatiah VI, is expected to lead the proceedings in the absence of the overlord of the Ashanti Kingdom, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, who missed the last meeting.
Ashanti Regional Chairman of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has addressed concerns about his health.
He was seen actively participating in the NPP Parliamentary Primaries in the Bantama Constituency, dispelling rumors about his well-being after an image of him bedridden in a hospital circulated on social media.
Chairman Wontumi was observed moving around and giving interviews during the elections, demonstrating that he is in good health. When questioned by the press about his well-being, he confidently stated, “I am okay.”
Chairman Wontumi on a sick bed
Chairman Wontumi had been in the news for making controversial comments about the Asantehene, leading to his summoning by the Manhyia Palace to meet the Kumasi Traditional Council.
However, he failed to attend the meeting, citing illness. The General Secretary of the NPP, Justin Kodua Frimpong, appealed to the Traditional Council for an extension on Wontumi’s behalf, citing his health condition. Despite their request, the Traditional Council denied the extension, stating that Wontumi did not provide a medical report to support his claim.
Chairman Wontumi is now expected to meet the Traditional Council on Monday, January 29, 2024.
The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has made a surprising recovery from his illness, just days after he was seen in a hospital bed with an intravenous catheter.
Chairman Wontumi, who was summoned by the Kumasi Traditional Council for allegedly insulting the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, had communicated to the council that he was unwell and could not appear before them on Friday, January 26, 2024.
A photo of him lying on a hospital bed, with a bandage on his arm and a drip attached to his hand, circulated on social media, raising concerns about his health condition.
However, on Saturday, January 27, 2024, Chairman Wontumi was seen in good health and high spirits, as he supervised the NPP parliamentary primaries in his region.
He was spotted at various polling stations, granting interviews and interacting with the delegates and the candidates.
When asked by a journalist how his health is at the moment, he briskly responded, ” I am fine, I am fine”.
Chairman Wontumi, who has been the NPP regional chairman since 2014, is known for his influential role within the party and his outspoken nature, often making controversial statements and engaging in vigorous political discourse.
After being hospitalised few days ago, Chairman Wontumi stated that NPP will win the 2024 general elections for Ghana to develop#Tigpost Adwoa Safo | Ashimeru | Bantama #NPPDecides KT Hammond | Arda | Nico Williams | Cameroon | Neymar #NPPPrimariespic.twitter.com/eUS3P6fbh4
Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Ashanti Region, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, made a surprise appearance at a polling station in the Bantama Constituency, seemingly in robust health, after recent reports of his illness had circulated widely.
The sudden turnaround has left many scratching their heads and speculating about the nature of the earlier reports.
Speculations about Chairman Wontumi‘s health began circulating earlier this week when it was reported that he was unwell , following a summon by the Kumasi Traditional Council.
Chairman Wontumi is being sought over some remarks he recently made. He was asked to present himself before the Kumasi Traditional Council after the remarks but failed to. It was later reported that he wasn’t in good shape, hence, his failure to appear before the council. However, he miraculously showed up at the voting centre in the Ashanti Region.
Managing Editor of the Insight Newspaper, Kwesi Pratt Jr., has raised questions and mockingly highlighted the absence of the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NPP, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.
Speaking on a panel discussion on Peace FM’s Kokrokoo on January 26, 2024, Pratt took a mocking tone as he drew attention to the missing status of Chairman Wontumi, less than 24 hours before the scheduled January 27, 2024, election.
“Upon all that we are saying; in the Ashanti region, despite the crucial NPP primaries, their chairman is missing. My own friend Wontumi is missing,” Pratt remarked during the discussion.
He further revealed that he had seen a photo of Wontumi on a sick bed, with reports suggesting serious illness, including speculations of typhoid and malaria.
“When you look at his condition on the sick bed, then his typhoid is very serious because looking at a crucial election like this, the chairman is missing,” Pratt added.
Meanwhile, Wontumi is expected to appear before the Kumasi Traditional Council on January 29, 2024, following a summons issued earlier in the week. The NPP Chairman faces accusations of making disrespectful comments aimed at undermining the authority of the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
The Kumasi Traditional Council had initially summoned Wontumi for a hearing on January 22, but the NPP General Secretary reported that he was unable to appear due to illness. The summons and subsequent controversies surrounding Wontumi’s appearance have added an extra layer of complexity to the already dynamic political landscape in the Ashanti Region.
Opemsuo Radio, an affiliate of the Manhyia Palace, the seat of the Asantehene, has confirmed that Wontumi and others summoned by the Council will indeed appear on the specified date of January 29, 2024, putting an end to conflicting reports circulating in the media.
Reports have emerged contradicting earlier claims that the Manhyia Palace has dismissed media assertions indicating the withdrawal of summonses for the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi, to appear before the Kumasi Traditional Council.
The media had suggested that the Asantehene ordered the council to cease discussions on alleged disrespectful actions by Chairman Wontumi towards the occupant of the golden stool.
Previously, Nana Kofi Owusu, the Chief Linguist of Otumfuo, had directed the NPP, led by Justin Frimpong Kodua, during a meeting on Monday, January 22, 2024, at the Manhyia Palace, to present Chairman Wontumi before the Asanteman Council within a week.
Despite potential health concerns, Wontumi was urged to respond to alleged derogatory comments about Asanteman.
Contrary to circulating reports claiming a directive from the Asantehene instructing the Kumasi Traditional Council to suspend Chairman Wontumi’s case, sources from the palace, as reported by JoyNews, have refuted such assertions.
According to these sources, no such directive has been issued by the Asantehene.
New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has been spotted in a health facility in a photo making rounds on social media.
In the image, Chairman Wontumi is seen lying on a bed with an intravenous (IV) catheter inserted into one of his hands.
This photo comes after New Patriotic Party(NPP) General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong (JFK), revealed to the Kumasi Traditional Council that the party’s Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi is unwell and currently on admission at a health facility.
JFK, who appeared before the chiefs and elders of the Ashanti Kingdom on Monday, disclosed this while reporting to the council about the whereabouts of Chairman Wontumi who has been summoned for allegedly making derogatory remarks against the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
Chairman Wontumi is faking sickness to avoid appearing before Otumfuor Who say man no dey 🤣 pic.twitter.com/CCnwDOowj0
The General Secretary of the party however confessed that he had no doctor’s report to prove that Wontumi, was indeed sick.
JFK said that Chairman Wontumi called him on Sunday and claimed that he was at the hospital, on admission and that he was not well.
However, when JFK asked him to provide a doctor’s report, so that he could present it to the chiefs, Chairman Wontumi failed to do so.
The remarks have sparked outrage among the chiefs and the youth of the Ashanti Kingdom, who have demanded an apology from Chairman Wontumi and threatened to exile him from the Ashanti land if he did not apologise to the Asantehene and the golden stool.
Some elders in the council have also asked that the NPP suspends all its activities in Kumasi until Chairman Wontumi appears before the Council and clears the air.
Private legal practitioner and prominent member of the New Patriotic Party, Maurice Ampaw has taken chiefs of the Ashanti Kingdom to the gutters for summoning Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.
Speaking on the ‘Mmra ne Abrabo’ show on Wontumi TV, the lawyer accused the chiefs of being thieves and girlfriend snatchers.
He claimed that the chiefs are not worth talking about Chairman Wontumi because some of them engage in multiple sale of land.
“The chiefs ‘dragging’ Chairman Wontumi, have you finished solving your problems? Some of you are thieves,” he claimed.
His remarks come after a summon was placed on the head of NPP Ashanti Regional Chairman, Chairman Wontumi, over some derogatory comments about the Asante kingdom.
HOT AUDIO 🔥🔥🔥
Leading NPP Member, Maurice Ampaw insults Ashanti Chiefs; calls them thieves and girl friend snatchers pic.twitter.com/l8OdXtmLPG
The controversy arose during the vetting of NPP parliamentary aspirants in the Ashanti region when Chairman Wontumi allegedly claimed to have “built his own kingdom with military and police force in the Asante Kingdom.”
Following the remarks, the Kumasi Traditional Council has been desperately seeking his appearance before them to respond to some questions.
As at the time of filing this report, Chairman Wontumi had not made any appearance before the Council, however, he has been given up to January 29, 2024, to appear before the Council.
The General Manager of Wontumi Multimedia, Kofi Agyei, has apologised to the Manhyia Palace for some derogatory remarks made by one of their show hosts, Lawyer Maurice Ampaw, against the chiefs of the Kumasi Traditional Council.
Ampaw’s comments, considered offensive by traditional rulers, led to a summons from the Kumasi Traditional Council for the CEO of Wontumi Multimedia, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, known as Chairman Wontumi, and Lawyer Ampaw to appear and explain their actions.
“He (Wontumi) should come along with Maurice Ampaw and the Management of his media house so they answer why they decided to use their air time to disrespect Nananom,” ordered the Council.
Facing the repercussions of these remarks, Wontumi Multimedia‘s General Manager expressed regret and offered an unqualified apology ahead of their scheduled visit to the Manhyia Palace on January 29.
“He erred in his speech and spoke against traditional authorities at the Manhyia palace. It was wrong, and so we are here to apologize. Management of the media house will go to the Palace but ahead of that, we want to use this channel to render an unqualified apology. We are on our knees. We plead that the traditional authorities forgive us,” Mr Agyei stated during a broadcast on Monday evening.
He further emphasized that the media house would never use its platform to disrespect authorities and acknowledged the support received from Manhyia Palace.
This unexpected apology aims to mend the strained relationship caused by the offensive remarks, signaling a potential resolution between Wontumi Multimedia and the traditional authorities.
HOT AUDIO 🔥🔥🔥
Leading NPP Member, Maurice Ampaw insults Ashanti Chiefs; calls them thieves and girl friend snatchers pic.twitter.com/l8OdXtmLPG
The New Patriotic Party(NPP) General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong (JFK), has revealed to the Kumasi Traditional Council that the party’s Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi is unwell and currently on admission at a health facility.
JFK, who appeared before the chiefs and elders of the Ashanti Kingdom on Monday, disclosed this while reporting to the council about the whereabouts of Chairman Wontumi who has been summoned.
The General Secretary of the party however confessed that he had no doctor’s report to prove that Wontumi, was indeed sick.
JFK said that Chairman Wontumi called him on Sunday and claimed that he was at the hospital, on admission and that he was not well.
However, when JFK asked him to provide a doctor’s report, so that he could present it to the chiefs, Chairman Wontumi failed to do so.
“And so last week Thursday, I called Nana Samaahene and informed him that chairman has come back and so just as was said the last time, if God permits and if there is room, on Monday, we would want to come and fulfil your request of his presence before you so we could discuss what needs to be discussed. Nananom, with all due respect, yesterday on my way here from Accra, then my chairman called me and said he is at the hospital, on admission and that he is not well. When he said that, I said oh, I am already on my way to Kumasi, if that is the case, he should let me have a doctor’s report, so I can present it to the chiefs when I come here today. But as time approached for my meeting with the chiefs, I hadn’t received the report. And I also decided, I was not going to wait for the report before I come before Nananom. So Nananom, this is the case now,” JFK said.
The summon is in relation to some alleged derogatory remarks that Chairman Wontumi has made against the Asantehene, Otumfuor Osei Tutu II, during the vetting of parliamentary aspirants in Manhyia South.
The remarks have sparked outrage among the chiefs and the youth of the Ashanti Kingdom, who have demanded an apology from Chairman Wontumi and threatened to exile him from the Ashanti land if he did not apologise to the Asantehene and the golden stool.
Some elders in the council have also asked that the NPP suspends all its activities in Kumasi until Chairman Wontumi appears before the Council and clears the air.
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) leader in the Ashanti Region, Bernard Antwi Bo has been directed to make a mandatory appearance before the Kumasi Traditional Council at the Manhyia Palace on Monday, January 29, 2024.
This directive stems from the purported derogatory comments attributed to Chairman Wontumi against the Asantehene approximately two weeks ago.
Chairman Wontumi is anticipated to present himself alongside Lawyer Maurice Ampaw, both facing allegations of making comparable derogatory remarks on radio.
The Kumasi Traditional Council has summoned the management of the radio station where the controversial comments were made.
Chairman Wontumi was initially expected to make an appearance today, January 22, 2024, at the Manhyia Palace, however, he failed to for health reasons.
On his behalf, NPP General Secretary Justin Kodua and Organiser, Henry Nana Boakye led a party delegation to the Manhyia Palace.
The Bantamahene, Baffour Owusu Amankwatia (VI), in the absence of the Asantehene, sat in state.
All factions of the Kumasi Traditional Council were represented at the Palace.
Speaking on behalf of Wontumi, the NPP General Secretary pleaded that the accused had taken ill and requested two weeks for his recovery.
As tradition demands, it was thrown to the faction leaders of the traditional council to have their take on the matter.
All leaders who spoke furiously disagreed with the request for the two weeks since Wontumi had failed to present a medical report to validate his absence.
They further drew in lawyer Maurice Ampaw for alleged derogatory statements in support of Chairman Wontumi’s statement.
In passing final comments, the Bantamahene, Baffour Owusu Amankwaatia ordered that the Ashanti Regional NPP Chair appear before the traditional council next Monday.
He also ordered Maurice Ampaw and the Management of Wontumi Radio to be present on the same day.
In a concluding statement, the NPP General Secretary thanked the traditional authority and reiterated his reverence for the Golden Stool.
He dissociated the party from the invitation thrown to Maurice Ampaw.
The merits of the substantive issue are yet to be heard.
General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Justin Kodua Frimpong, has announced that he is leading a delegation of party officials to the Manhyia Palace in response to the recent brouhaha involving Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II and the party’s Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako.
He made this known while announcing the guidelines ahead of the parliamentary primaries scheduled for January 27.
Bernard Antwi Boasiako also known as Chairman Wontumi is accused of making derogatory remarks about Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
This is said to have unfolded at the party’s recently held Ashanti Regional Parliamentary Vetting. It is said alleged that Chairman Wontumi had cast aspersions on the Asantehene at the said event.
But Chairman Wontumi has refuted allegations that he made derogatory remarks about Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene.
He says that these reports are orchestrated by his opponents, the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) to create public discontent towards him.
As the matter unfolds, Chairman Wontumi has also been accused of cursing the Kokosohene, Nana Kwaku Duah, with the ‘Antoa’ deity.
The situation unfolded when Justin Kodua, concerned about reports of Chairman Wontumi’s alleged attack on Otumfuo, called the Kokosohene to verify the news. During the phone conversation, Justin Kodua added Chairman Wontumi on a conference call to get his input on the controversial issue.
Unexpectedly, Chairman Wontumi, upon hearing the voice of Kokosohene, became angry and started to curse him. In his alleged curses, Wontumi reportedly invoked the powerful ‘Antoa‘ deity and other river gods, praying for harm to befall the Kokosohene without any apparent provocation.
The Kokosohene confirmed the incident, stating that Wontumi cursed him, praying for the river deities to strike him dead.
Meanwhile, Mr Frimpong Kodua has cautioned NPP supporters against making public statements that could be derogatory to the chieftaincy institution.
NPP’s National Organiser, Henry Nana Boakye, also known as “Nana B,” is facing strong criticism for defending embattled Ashanti Regional New Patriotic Party (NPP) Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, known as Chairman Wontumi, in relation to the latter’s disrespectful comments against the overlord of the Ashanti Kingdom.
A group known as “Ashanti Youth” has expressed their displeasure, describing Nana B as a significant traitor and likening him to a modern-day “Kwame Tua” in the Ashanti Kingdom, a hated man within the Ashanti world over how he habitually fed the British with information about the Ashanti during the colonial era.
At a press conference held at the Ashanti Regional House of Chiefs-Manhyia on Wednesday, 17th January 2023, aggrieved members of the group said they are “highly disappointed in the National Organiser for the NPP in the person of Henry Nana Boakye (Nana B) for trying to cover up for Chairman Wontumi’s unguided remarks against the Golden stool”.
The spokesperson for the group, Amaning Kwarteng also noted that, “Nana B has denied on various radio stations in the country that Chairman Wontumi did not make such statements, only to be revealed by the Kokosohene that indeed Chairman Wontumi made such statement”.
During the media engagement, the group challenging NPP’s National Organiser, Henry Nana Boakye, asserted that he cannot prioritize his political interests over his identity as a member of the Asante Tribe.
The spokesperson for the group labeled Nana B, along with other Asantes within the NPP, as individuals who have subordinated their cultural and ethnic heritage for the sake of political pursuits.
Meanwhile, Bernard Antwi Boasiako has been accused of cursing the Kokosohene, Nana Kwaku Duah, with the ‘Antoa’ deity.
The alleged incident is said to be in response to accusations about Chairman Wontumi making derogatory remarks about Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene.
The situation unfolded when Justin Kodua, concerned about reports of Chairman Wontumi’s alleged attack on Otumfuo, called the Kokosohene to verify the news. During the phone conversation, Justin Kodua added Chairman Wontumi on a conference call to get his input on the controversial issue.
Unexpectedly, Chairman Wontumi, upon hearing the voice of Kokosohene, became angry and started to curse him. In his alleged curses, Wontumi reportedly invoked the powerful ‘Antoa‘ deity and other river gods, praying for harm to befall the Kokosohene without any apparent provocation.
The Kokosohene has confirmed the incident, stating that Wontumi cursed him, praying for the river deities to strike him dead.
“I’m extremely surprised about Wontumi’s arrogant and weird behaviour. He just started to rain curses on me when he heard my voice on the phone.
“Justin Kodua had called me on phone to verify the authenticity of Wontumi’s attack on Otumfuo and also ask what steps he should take to plead on behalf of Wontumi at the Manhyia Palace. Surprisingly, Wontumi rather started to curse me with river deities when he heard my voice on the phone.
“He cursed me with about seven river deities, including ‘Antoa’ to strike me dead and use my wife and children as thanksgiving”, Nana Kwaku Duah claimed, adding “even Justin Kodua was speechless about Wontumi’s actions”.
Also, Chairman Wontumi has refuted allegations that he made derogatory remarks about Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene.
He says that these reports are orchestrated by his opponents, the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) to create public discontent towards him.
In a press statement released on Thursday, January 11, Chairman Wontumi called on Ghanaians and NPP supporters to dismiss the propaganda.
Embattled Ashanti Regional New Patriotic Party (NPP) Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, known as Chairman Wontumi, has been accused of cursing the Kokosohene, Nana Kwaku Duah, with the ‘Antoa’ deity.
The alleged incident is said to be in response to accusations about Chairman Wontumi making derogatory remarks about Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene.
The situation unfolded when Justin Kodua, concerned about reports of Chairman Wontumi’s alleged attack on Otumfuo, called the Kokosohene to verify the news. During the phone conversation, Justin Kodua added Chairman Wontumi on a conference call to get his input on the controversial issue.
Unexpectedly, Chairman Wontumi, upon hearing the voice of Kokosohene, became angry and started to curse him. In his alleged curses, Wontumi reportedly invoked the powerful ‘Antoa‘ deity and other river gods, praying for harm to befall the Kokosohene without any apparent provocation.
The Kokosohene has confirmed the incident, stating that Wontumi cursed him, praying for the river deities to strike him dead.
“I’m extremely surprised about Wontumi’s arrogant and weird behaviour. He just started to rain curses on me when he heard my voice on the phone.
“Justin Kodua had called me on phone to verify the authenticity of Wontumi’s attack on Otumfuo and also ask what steps he should take to plead on behalf of Wontumi at the Manhyia Palace. Surprisingly, Wontumi rather started to curse me with river deities when he heard my voice on the phone.
“He cursed me with about seven river deities, including ‘Antoa’ to strike me dead and use my wife and children as thanksgiving”, Nana Kwaku Duah claimed, adding “even Justin Kodua was speechless about Wontumi’s actions”.
Chairman Otumfuo curses Otumfuo’s Okosohene. Otumfuo is not happy about Wontumi’s filthy utterances. Rumors have it that, Wontumi is likely to be banished from the Ashanti region. pic.twitter.com/HRrjvdwP0G
Meanwhile, Chairman Wontumi has refuted allegations that he made derogatory remarks about Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene.
He says that these reports are orchestrated by his opponents, the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) to create public discontent towards him.
In a press statement released on Thursday, January 11, Chairman Wontumi called on Ghanaians and NPP supporters to dismiss the propaganda.
Bernard Antwi Boasiako, widely recognised asChairman Wontumi and serving as the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has refuted claims that he contested the authority of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene.
He asserted that these allegations are unfounded, malicious, and deceptive. Chairman Wontumi accused certain individuals of trying to sow discord between him, the ruling party, and the Asantehene.
In a press statement dated January 11, 2024, he said that his office “has taken notice of a news report circulating on both the traditional and social media spaces, suggesting that I have acted in a manner that is disrespectful to His Royal Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
“Specifically, the said news report was carried on Monday, January 10, 2024, in the Punch newspaper and also on AkomaFM and Onuaonline, both NDC-sponsored news outlets.
“First, I would like to place on record that this story is false, malicious, misleading and a calculated attempt by some elements to pitch the ruling party and my good self against the Asantehene, the occupant of the Golden Stool, for reasons best known to them,” part of the press statement said.
Wontumi asserted that he never made any statement to that effect during or after the said NPP vetting.
“I have never made any statement or gestures, before, during or after the vetting that should warrant such disgraceful and an unfounded reportage, and, I therefore, urge party faithfuls and the good people of Asanteman to respectfully, disregard this and treat it with the contempt it deserves.
“What was laughable is the fact that the writers and sponsors of this malicious venture, could not even provide any evidence to buttress their points as they hid behind “it is alleged”, “he is reported to have…”, but could not make a definite statement in their reportage, “he added.
Wontumi continued: “This clearly indicates that this was a calculated move targeted at my person by some NDC media outlets and their sponsors, just to tarnish my reputation.”
Earlier reports indicated that Chairman Wontumi was called to the Manhyia Palace to clarify allegations of him showing disrespect to Otumfuo. Allegedly, this incident occurred during a meeting of the NPP parliamentary primaries vetting committee.
The NPP National Organiser, Henry Nana Boakye, who presided over the vetting committee, has rejected the assertions of Wontumi disrespecting Otumfuo.
Read the full statement below:
The office of the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party, Mr. Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has taken notice of a news report circulating on both the traditional and social media spaces, suggesting that I have acted in a manner that is disrespectful to His Royal Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
Specifically, the said news report was carried on Monday, January 10, 2024, in the Punch newspaper and also on AkomaFM and Onuaonline, both NDC-sponsored news outlets.
Captioned “Wontumi Disrespected Otumfuo at NPP Vetting” on the front page of the NDC’s Punch newspaper, the said story sought to suggest that I made those comments during a vetting process of NPP parliamentary aspirants last week.
First, I would like to place on record that this story is false, malicious, misleading and a calculated attempt by some elements to pitch the ruling party and my good self against the Asantehene, the occupant of the Golden Stool, for reasons best known to them.
I have never made any statement or gesture before, during or after the vetting that should warrant such disgraceful and unfounded reportage, and I therefore urge party faithfuls and the good people of Asanteman to respectfully disregard this and treat it with the contempt it deserves.
What was laughable is the fact that the writers and sponsors of this malicious venture, could not even provide any evidence to buttress their points as they hid behind “it is alleged”, “he is reported to have…”, but could not make a definite statement in their reportage.
This clearly indicates that this was a calculated move targeted at my person by some NDC media outlets and their sponsors, just to tarnish my reputation.
As nature would give it, I come from a home with strong understanding of traditions and customs, respect for traditional authorities, and graciously, I have the privilege to serve my party in a capacity as the regional Chairman in the Asante Kingdom.
With my years of service to the golden stool as the regional chairman, I have served with pride and in dignity to the Asantehene, and, there have never been any moment that my actions and inactions have suggested insubordination to the occupant of the golden stool because I serve the NPP and ultimately the Golden Stool.
I am by this medium giving the PUNCH newspaper, Broadcastergh.com and AkomaFM/Onuaonline, to retract and apologize within 24 hours to my person and Manhyia Palace, through the same medium, or I will initiate a legal action against them.
I am focused, well resolved and well placed to lead the party in the region to break the 8, and make Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, the next President of the republic of Ghana, in 2025, therefore, such detractive elements cannot weigh me down.
The Ashanti regional chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, in a recent development reported by Onuaonline.com, is facing repercussions for allegedly challenging the authority of Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, during a session of the NPP parliamentary primaries vetting committee last week.
Without provocation, Wontumi reportedly asserted his independence, stating, “I have built my own kingdom, I have my own police and military, and I will speak my mind to Otumfuo if I disagree on an issue with him,” as quoted in the report.
NPP National Organiser, Henry Nana Boakye, chaired the vetting committee during this incident, as noted in the report. Kokosohene, Nana Kwaku Duah, who was present at the time, expressed strong disapproval of Wontumi’s statement.
“For you to even say those words in my presence is unacceptable, and I’m not happy about your weird and disrespectful behaviour,” Kokosohene reportedly rebuked Wontumi.
Subsequently, the Asanteman Traditional Council has taken action, reportedly writing to the General Secretary of the NPP, Justin Frimpong Kodua, demanding an explanation for his perceived challenge to the authority of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
The letter seeks the facilitation of Chairman Wontumi‘s appearance at the Manhyia Palace to address and explain his alleged disrespect towards Otumfuo. This move suggests a significant response from traditional authorities to maintain respect for the Asantehene.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II is the 16th Asantehene, the traditional ruler of the Asante people, who are the largest ethnic group in Ghana. He is widely respected and revered for his role in promoting peace, development, and culture in Ghana and beyond.
He is also the Chancellor of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) and a member of the World Economic Forum.
Manhyia Palace has reportedly summoned Bernard Antwi Boasiako, also known asChairman Wontumi, the Ashanti regional chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
This summons follows allegations that Wontumi challenged the authority of the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
According to a report from Onuaonline.com, Wontumi openly questioned the Asantehene’s authority during a session of the NPP parliamentary primaries vetting committee last week.
The report states that, without provocation, the party chairman asserted that he had established his own kingdom and would not hesitate to challenge Otumfuo if they disagreed on an issue.
“I have built my own kingdom, I have my own police and military, and I will speak my mind to Otumfuo if I disagree on an issue with him (Otumfuo)” the report quoted Wontumi as stating.
The report highlighted that Henry Nana Boakye, the NPP National Organiser, served as the chairman of the vetting committee during the incident.
Additionally, Kokosohene Nana Kwaku Duah, who was present at the time, is reported to have expressed a strong objection to Wontumi’s statement.
“For you to even say those words in my presence is unacceptable, and I’m not happy about your weird and disrespectful behaviour,” Kokosohene reportedly fumed at Wontumi.
Subsequent to the incident, reports suggest that the Asanteman Traditional Council has penned a letter to Justin Frimpong Kodua, the General Secretary of the NPP.
The purpose of this communication is to request facilitation forChairman Wontumi’s appearance at the Manhyia Palace. The aim is for Wontumi to provide an explanation regarding the alleged disrespect shown towards Otumfuo.
The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has claimed that under the leadership of President Akufo-Addo, Ghana has surpassed London in terms of development.
He asserted that the country has experienced substantial growth and development since President Akufo-Addo assumed office.
Chairman Wontumi pointed to infrastructural advancements in various suburbs, including Cantoments, Labadi, and East Legon, as evidence of the positive transformation occurring under the current administration.
Speaking in an interview on Asempa FM on December 7, 2023, he encouraged Ghanaians to support the continuity of the current administration by voting for Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as the next president.
“I came to Accra the last time and I used the Labone, Cantonments and East Legon stretch, and you can see that Ghana is changing and now I can say that Ghana is better than London because if you look at different story buildings that are under construction and all, it means that we are working in this country, the country is changing and it’s changing for good.
“ …and I am pleased as a Ghanaian, that’s why I am saying we should vote for Dr Bawumia to continue the good work,” he said.
Chairman Wontumi asserts that Ghana is now better than London, having seen a lot of development under the leadership of President Akufo-Addo. pic.twitter.com/K5rE8xbOZr
The Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Ashanti Region, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly referred to as Chairman Wontumi, has revealed that certain chiefs and leaders in the region have pledged to cover all expenses associated with Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s campaign team during the upcoming presidential primaries on November 4.
These expenses include the transportation and meals for party delegates and any other costs incurred during the congress. Chairman Wontumi made these comments at a campaign event for the vice president, emphasizing the strong support and affection the Ashanti Region residents have for Dr. Bawumia.
“I got a call from the Ashanti (region)… from some of the chiefs in Ashanti (region), and they told me that they want to take all the expenses on the 4th of November—the food the delegates are going to eat and their lorry fares—all the expenses on the 4th of November.
“This is the kind of love the Ashanti (region) wants to show to the NPP. This is the kind of love the Ashanti Region wants to show to Dr.Mahamudu Bawumia,” he said.
The NPP’s presidential primaries are set to take place on Saturday, November 4, 2023. This election will feature four candidates vying for the party’s presidential candidacy for the 2024 elections: Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Assin Central Legislator Kennedy Agyapong, former Food and Agriculture Minister Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto, and former Mampong legislator Francis Addai-Nimoh.
At the funeral of the late CEO of Miklin Hotel, the second spouse of the controversial Ghanaian politician Bernard Antwi Bosiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi, took the center stage.
Michelin Lawson, who shares four children with Chairman Wontumi, garnered significant attention.
Known for her well-traveled life, she currently resides in Ghana.
Photographer Yhawfocus posted a video on Tiktok captioned, “Meet the Wife of Chairman Wontumi Michelin Lawson.”
The final funeral ceremonies for Michael Nsiah, the late CEO of Miklin Hotel, transpired on Saturday, October 7, 2023, in Kumasi. Distinguished personalities, including President Nana Akufo-Addo, graced the occasion.
Campaign manager for Kennedy Agyapong, Kwame Owusu, has expressed determination to oust Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, from his role as the party’s Ashanti Regional Chairman in the upcoming elections.
During an interview on Akoma FM on October 16, 2023, Kwame Owusu emphasized that Chairman Wontumi’s conduct indicates his inadequacy to lead the NPP within the region. He levied accusations against the Ashanti Regional chairman, asserting that his actions displayed bias in a position that mandates impartial treatment for all.
“We don’t want somebody who is biased… we are going to ensure that someone like Wontumi (is removed).
“We will campaign against him (Wontumi) because I don’t want a biased person in a position that requires fairness. How can we allow that to happen? We are saying that he (Wontumi) has not demonstrated what it takes to be a chairman of a region,” he said in Twi.
“I’m saying this from the standpoint of his behaviour. I’m not talking about any animosity between us. But if someone is a chairman in our party, he must act as one, he must remain neutral,” he clarified.
In addition, he said, they would fight to remove other party leaders who have behaved in a similar manner from office, in addition to the NPP Ashanti Regional Chairman.
Kennedy Agyapong, a presidential aspirant for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has noted that he holds no grudge against the party’s Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako over his threat to have him arrested.
Bernard Antwi Boasiako, also known as Chairman Wontumi, has issued a warning, stating that he will seek the arrest of Kennedy Agyapong if he continues to make threats against his life.
During a press conference held in Kumasi, Chairman Wontumi expressed concern that the threats made by the Member of Parliament for Assin Central against the late Tiger Eye PI journalist, Ahmed Suale, had ultimately resulted in Suale’s death. As a result, Chairman Wontumi takes Agyapong’s threats seriously.
This development comes in the wake of Kennedy Agyapong’s accusations during his “Showdown Walk” event in Kumasi, where he alleged that Chairman Wontumi and the Vice President were responsible for undermining the NPP.
Mr. Kennedy Agyapong also dared the Ashanti regional chairman of the NPP and stated that he would give him a “showdown.”
The contention between the two individuals was raised during an interview on Starr FM.
When reminded by host Bola Ray of Chairman Wontumi’s threat to have him arrested, he said, “I forgive him.”
He, however, expressed disappointment over Chairman Wontumi’s decision to seek police assistance.
“I thought a bold man will always say that if you challenge me again or threaten me, I’m also going to face you. But if you resort to the police, it means you are a coward. Case closed. We are not going to talk about it again. I’d never call the police. I will come face-to-face and give you a showdown,” he said.
The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Chairman Wontumi, has hit back at the Member of Parliament for Assin Central and aspiring NPP flagbearer, Kennedy Agyapong, over his recent allegations against him and Vice President Dr. Bawumia.
In a fiery response, Wontumi urged Agyapong to desist from threats and inflammatory remarks, and to change his ways before the November 4th elections.
Wontumi, who is known for his bold and often controversial statements, addressed the media on Tuesday, September 26, 2023. He expressed his commitment to fostering development within the party, and swore that he would not say anything against Agyapong or the NPP. “Everything I do is to bring development,” he said.
However, he did not mince his words when it came to critiquing Agyapong’s style of addressing issues, highlighting concerns about the use of threatening language.
“Now everything you say concerning what people have done to you won’t do anything. Instead, comments about someone being foolish, the way you talk, saying you regret you are NPP — I will show you. It will be a showdown. I beg you; let it stop today.”
Wontumi also reminded Agyapong about the potential consequences of his words, referencing tragic incidents from the past. He said he would have Agyapong arrested if he ever threatened him again, adding that he did not want to end up like Ahmed Hussein-Suale, the investigative journalist who was killed by gunmen in 2019.
If you threaten me again, I'll have you arrested. It's the same thing you did to Ahmed Suale that he isn't alive today – Chairman Wontumi responds to Kennedy Agyapong #MetroNewspic.twitter.com/ehAoGyRKvy
Hussein-Suale was a member of Tiger Eye PI, a team led by Anas Aremeyaw Anas, which exposed corruption in various sectors of society. Agyapong had publicly revealed Hussein-Suale’s identity on National TV. Weeks after, he was murdered in cold blood. His alleged killers are yet to be arrested or prosecuted.
“Because if not and you threaten me again, I will have you arrested. This is the advice I give to you. Because you have done this same thing so much that Ahmed Suale and others are no longer alive. So do not do that going forward,” he said.
TheChairman called for a shift in the discourse, emphasizing the importance of constructive dialogue. He advised Agyapong to apologise to the party members and polling station executives he had insulted, and to watch his steps carefully ahead of the primaries.
“I am not saying I want you to lose, but the things you say, insulting party members and polling station agents, if you will apologise to them and watch your steps well , it could be beneficial to you.
“And if you believe in yourself so much, say what you can do. We have exactly one month to the November 4th elections. I will conclude with Ezekiel chapter 18:22, it says if a sinner will leave his sinful ways and take the ways of the Lord, he shall be saved. So we are left with one month,” he said.
The backdrop of this verbal exchange stems from Kennedy Agyapong’s accusations against Vice President Dr. Bawumia and Chairman Wontumi.
At a recent rally in Kumasi, Agyapong accused them of undermining the NPP, asserting that their actions could lead to the party’s collapse. Agyapong’s scathing remarks included accusations that Wontumi insulted elderly individuals on his television station and abandoned his initial support for Alan to back Bawumia.
The MP warned that such actions could destabilise the party and pledged to confront any attempts to sabotage the NPP. The ongoing internal strife within the NPP underscores the challenges faced by the party as the November 4th elections draw near.
The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, has issued a warning that he may pursue legal action to have Assin Central Member of Parliament Kennedy Agyapong arrested if he continues to tarnish his well-established reputation.
During a press conference held in response to a series of allegations made against him and the party by Kennedy Agyapong, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly referred to as Chairman Wontumi, asserted that he would not tolerate any further insults from Kennedy Agyapong.
“Ken must listen to me, I will make sure he is arrested if he dares tarnish my image. We know what Ken does, he insults people and goes scot free not me,” he said.
According to Chairman Wontumi, he would not remain quiet and be among the individuals who have been publicly attacked by the Assin Central MP.
“Ken in the past insulted and exposed Ahmed Suale, I am not him. I will report him to the police for justice”, he warned.
During his confrontational march in Kumasi, Mr. Agyapong confronted Chairman Wontumi and other prominent figures within the party, placing blame on them for the turmoil and disruption within the NPP.
But Chairman Wontumi is of the view that Ken Agyapong’s actions are causing harm to the party.
“Is it not true as Kennedy Agyapong alleges that I am destroying the NPP? You came to Kumasi, failed to meet up or call any of the leadership in the party and government in this region, yet you attacked the Regional Minister, you attacked Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, you attacked the Education Minister and you attacked me, Wontumi. Now you are there playing saint that it is me rather that is destroying the party. Tell me, who is destroying the party?”, he quizzed.
The Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Ashanti region, Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, has responded to allegations suggesting that Ashantis harbor dislike for northerners.
Chairman Wontumi has vehemently rejected such claims made by certain presidential aspirants, asserting their falsehood.
He made it clear that Ashantis hold no animosity towards northerners and emphasized that such accusations are baseless.
“Ashantis don’t have problems with northerners…this can never be true. If you go to Manhyia palace, which hosts the Ashanti King, you will find northerners all over… we don’t discriminate…so if there’s anyone that says Ashantis don’t like northerners, it’s never true”, he said.
Chairman Wontumi highlighted the presence of northerners in various aspects of Ashanti society, even mentioning their presence at Manhyia Palace, the residence of the Ashanti King, where they are welcomed without discrimination.
During a press conference held in Kumasi, the Ashanti region’s governor emphasized that if Ashantis indeed had any aversion to northerners, they would not have warmly received individuals like Dr. Bawumia during the Akwasidae festival.
He pointed out that this annual festival is of significant cultural importance in the Ashanti region and that the presence of Dr. Bawumia, a northerner, at the Manhyia Palace during the Akwasidae festival contradicts any allegations of bias against northerners.
Chairman Wontumi also highlighted the fact that even prominent figures like Kennedy Agyapong, who is of Akan descent, have not attended such a prestigious event on the Ashanti calendar, further emphasizing the inclusivity and openness of Ashanti culture.
“It’s interesting to note that even Kennedy Agyapong who is an Akan never attended such a great festival on the Ashanti calendar, like the Akwasidae festival. Yet, the northern he claims we hate like Dr. Bawumia, was present at Manhyia palace during the akwasiade festival. This is a clear indication that whatever he said are lies”, he added.
In a fiery response to recent accusations by Hon. Kennedy Agyapong, the outspoken Member of Parliament for Assin Central and aspiring NPP flagbearer, Ashanti Regional Chairman of the party, Chairman Wontumi has issued a stern warning, urging Agyapong to desist from threats and inflammatory remarks.
Addressing the media, Chairman Wontumi, known for his bold and often controversial statements, expressed his commitment to fostering development within the party. He declared, “I am swearing today that I will not say anything against you and I will not say anything against the NPP. Everything I do is to bring development.”
The Chairman went on to critique Kennedy Agyapong’s style of addressing issues, highlighting concerns about the use of threatening language. “Now everything you say concerning what people have done to you won’t do anything. Instead, comments about someone being foolish, the way you talk, saying you regret you are NPP — I will show you. It will be a showdown. I beg you; let it stop today.”
Wontumi did not shy away from reminding Agyapong about the potential consequences of his words, referencing tragic incidents from the past.
He said he would have Agyapong arrested if he ever threatened him again, adding that he did not want to end up like Ahmed Hussein-Suale, the investigative journalist who was killed by gunmen in 2019.
“Because if not and you threaten me again, I will have you arrested. This is the advice I give to you. Because you have done this same thing so much that Ahmed Suale and others are no longer alive. So do not do that going forward.”
If you threaten me again, I'll have you arrested. It's the same thing you did to Ahmed Suale that he isn't alive today – Chairman Wontumi responds to Kennedy Agyapong #MetroNewspic.twitter.com/ehAoGyRKvy
The Chairman called for a shift in the discourse, emphasizing the importance of constructive dialogue. He advised Agyapong to apologise to the party members and polling station executives he had insulted, and to watch his steps carefully ahead of the primaries.
” I am not saying I want you to lose, but the things you say, insulting party members and polling station members, if you will apologise to them and watch your steps well , it could be beneficial to you.
“And if you believe in yourself so much, say what you can do. We have exactly one month to the November 4th elections. I will conclude with Ezekiel chapter 18:22, it says if a sinner will leave his sinful ways and take the ways of the Lord, he shall be saved. So we are left with one month,” he said.
The backdrop of this verbal altercation stems from Kennedy Agyapong’s accusations against Vice President Dr. Bawumia and Chairman Wontumi. At a recent rally in Kumasi, Agyapong accused them of undermining the NPP, asserting that their actions could lead to the party’s collapse.
Agyapong’s scathing remarks included accusations that Wontumi insulted elderly individuals on his television station and abandoned his initial support for Alan to back Bawumia. The MP warned that such actions could destabilise the party and pledged to confront any attempts to sabotage the NPP. The ongoing internal strife within the NPP underscores the challenges faced by the party as the November 4th elections draw near.
Hussein-Suale was a member of Tiger Eye PI, a team led by Anas Aremeyaw Anas, which exposed corruption in various sectors of society.
Agyapong had publicly revealed Hussein-Suale’s identity on National TV. Weeks after, he was murdered in cold blood. His alleged killers are yet to be arrested or prosecuted.
Member of Parliament for Assin Central and a presidential hopeful in the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) November 4 presidential primaries, Kennedy Agyapong, has made three significant revelations regarding the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NPP, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, also known as Chairman Wontumi.
Agyapong, during his showdown walk in the Ashanti Regional capital of Kumasi on September 30, 2023, accused Chairman Wontumi of employing questionable tactics in politics. He expressed his concern about instances in which Wontumi has used his media platforms or allowed them to be used to criticize prominent party officials, particularly former trade minister Alan Kyerematen, who recently resigned from the NPP.
“I dare Wontumi to make a mistake and he will see men in this country, he will see men in Ghana. You operate a radio and TV station to insult elderly people,” Agyapong warned.
Kennedy further revealed that traditionally, Chairman Wontumi was aligned with the faction supporting Alan Kyerematen. He claimed that it was his own efforts that led to Wontumi switching allegiance and becoming a staunch supporter of Nana Akufo-Addo.
“I dare Wontumi to come here and deny, he was a full-blooded Alan supporter and I convinced him to switch to the side of President Akufo-Addo. You can support Akufo-Addo or Vice President Bawumia but don’t insult,” Agyapong told the mammoth crowd.
Regarding the criticism directed at Alan Kyerematen, Agyapong asserted that Chairman Wontumi, along with certain regional chairmen, had taken control of the National Council of the NPP and were openly and aggressively disparaging Alan Kyerematen.
“Alan is being insulted on Wontumi’s station. Wontumi is just a small boy, he is a small boy.
“It is sad that Wontumi and five chairmen – four from the northern regions and the Volta Region – have turned the National Council into a hooliganism group,” he added.
“You should see Wontumi with his dirty anger displaying at the National Council meeting, the highest decision-making organ of the party. It is sad.
“I dare him, I am going to dare him, let him try November 4, I will give them a showdown. We won’t let our sacrifices from 1992 go waste because of boys who did not know how the party was formed,” he charged.
Agyapong will vie for the NPP’s flagbearer position alongside three other contenders: Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto, and Francis Addai-Nimoh.
The NPP has scheduled November 4, 2023, as the date for selecting a successor to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo as the party’s leader.
KENNEDY SHAKES KUMASI: Wontumi is a small boy. I dare him. I will give him a showdown. – Kennedy Agyapong pic.twitter.com/zKOIzVbTXn
