The Minority in Parliament has condemned the conviction and 20-year prison sentence handed to Ashanti Regional NPP Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, for illegal mining offences. In a statement signed by Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the caucus argued that the trial was marred by serious constitutional and procedural flaws, including the denial of the accused’s counsel of choice and the refusal to refer constitutional questions to the Supreme Court.
The Minority also questioned the trial court’s decision to hold Chairman Wontumi personally liable for the actions of Akonta Mining Limited, describing the lifting of the company’s corporate veil as an exceptional legal remedy that warrants closer scrutiny. The caucus maintained that its position is aimed at defending constitutional principles and ensuring equal application of the law, rather than advocating for any individual.
The group has called on the Attorney-General to publish its enforcement record on illegal mining cases across the political spectrum to demonstrate fairness and consistency. It also urged the Court of Appeal and the Judiciary to thoroughly examine the constitutional issues raised in the case and reaffirm established legal standards on fair trial rights and constitutional referrals, while encouraging Ghanaians to demand equal justice regardless of political affiliation.