Bernard Antwi Boasiako, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) widely known as Chairman Wontumi, was released from the custody of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) on Monday evening after satisfying stringent bail requirements. NPP General Secretary Justin Kodua confirmed the development to journalists, ending days of legal and political drama.
Wontumi had been detained since Tuesday, May 27, as part of investigations into allegations of fraud, money laundering, and causing financial loss to the state. Deputy Attorney-General Justice Srem-Sai earlier revealed the probe potentially links to an international organized crime syndicate.
Bail Battle Resolved
The High Court granted Wontumi bail set at GH₵50 million with two sureties last week, but his legal team initially struggled to meet the conditions. His release was secured after former Agriculture Minister Dr. Bryan Acheampong stepped in as one surety, with lead counsel Andy Appiah-Kubi confirming Acheampong’s documentation “exceeded the required value.”
A last-minute legal challenge filed Friday seeking a review of the bail terms delayed his release. However, the application was unexpectedly withdrawn Monday, clearing the path for Wontumi’s exit from custody. The case had been scheduled for hearing Tuesday, June 3.
Multi-Agency Probes Intensify
While Wontumi regains freedom, investigations broaden:
- The Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) is now compiling a separate case file parallel to EOCO and CID probes.
- He remains obligated to cooperate fully with all investigations per his bail terms.
Political Firestorm
Wontumi’s detention ignited fierce backlash from NPP leadership. Party MPs, executives, and supporters staged protests at EOCO headquarters, denouncing the bail conditions as “politically motivated and excessive.”
General Secretary Kodua acknowledged Dr. Acheampong’s role in securing Wontumi’s release, stating: “The party stands united in ensuring due process prevails.”
EOCO has yet to comment on the timeline for concluding investigations.