Accra High Court Convicts NPP’s Chairman Wontumi in Landmark Illegal Mining Case-Details

The Accra High Court has convicted Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), along with his company Akonta Mining Company Limited, on multiple counts related to illegal mining activities.

Justice Audrey Kocuvie-Tay, presiding over Criminal Court 4, delivered the judgment today in Suit No. CR/0004/2026, finding the accused guilty of charges including the unauthorized assignment of mineral rights and purposely facilitating unlicensed mining operations at the Samreboi concession in the Western Region.

Background of the Case

Chairman Wontumi, a prominent businessman, media proprietor, and influential NPP figure, has long been associated with the mining sector through Akonta Mining. The case stems from allegations that in 2024, Wontumi and his company permitted individuals such as Henry Okum and Michael Gyedu Ayisi to undertake mining operations on the Samreboi concession without the required prior written approval from the Minister responsible for mines, in violation of the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703) as amended by Act 995.

Prosecutors, led by the Office of the Attorney-General, argued that these actions enabled illegal mining (commonly known as galamsey) on a licensed concession, contributing to environmental degradation in the area. The charges included six counts encompassing assignment of mineral rights without approval and facilitating unlicensed operations. Wontumi and the company pleaded not guilty when formally charged in October 2025.

The trial, which drew intense public scrutiny due to Wontumi’s political profile, saw several delays. Key developments included:

Arrest and initial police bail in late 2025.

Formal charges and a GHC15 million court bail with sureties granted by the High Court.

Defense arguments, including a no-case submission that was dismissed and constitutional challenges to certain provisions of the Mining Act.

Conclusion of evidence in early June 2026, with judgment initially slated for July 3 before being deferred to today.

Wontumi’s legal team, including prominent lawyer Samuel Atta Akyea, sought further adjournment today citing the lead counsel’s unavailability, but the court proceeded with the judgment.

Details of the Conviction

Reports from the courtroom and immediate social media updates indicate that Wontumi and Akonta Mining were convicted on four or more counts (with some sources citing all six), specifically for unlawfully assigning rights and enabling illegal operations.

Under the Minerals and Mining (Amendment) Act, 2019 (Act 995), convictions for such offenses carry severe penalties, potentially including a minimum of 15 years and up to 25 years imprisonment, along with substantial fines. Sentencing details are expected to follow or may have been part of today’s ruling.a8edbd

Wontumi’s aide, Thomas Andy Owusu, was separately convicted earlier in a related galamsey bribery case, highlighting broader scrutiny around the network.

Reactions and Political Context

The conviction has sparked immediate reactions across Ghana’s political divide. Supporters of the NPP view it as politically motivated persecution of a key opposition figure (following the party’s electoral fortunes), while anti-galamsey advocates and sections of the public hail it as a bold step toward accountability in the fight against illegal mining, which has devastated forests, rivers, and farmlands.

NDC-linked voices on social media had anticipated a guilty verdict, while rumors of sentencing (such as 15 years) circulated earlier but were clarified as premature.

Wontumi’s lawyers are likely to explore appeal options, potentially including further constitutional references to the Supreme Court.

Broader Implications

This case underscores Ghana’s ongoing battle against galamsey, a persistent issue that has strained natural resources and public trust. Wontumi’s prominence makes the outcome a test case for the principle that “no one is above the law,” as noted by observers.

Environmental groups hope the ruling will deter powerful actors from enabling unlicensed mining, while political analysts anticipate heightened tensions ahead of future elections.

As Ghana grapples with governance, resource management, and political accountability, today’s judgment marks a pivotal moment. Further updates on sentencing and any appeals will be closely watched by the nation.