Wontumi Applies for Bail While Challenging 20-Year Galamsey Conviction
The Ashanti Regional NPP Chairman is seeking temporary release from prison as he appeals his 20-year sentence for illegal mining.
- Wontumi has applied for bail pending appeal.
- He is challenging his 20-year prison sentence.
- The High Court is expected to rule on the application.
Lawyers for Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, have filed an application at the High Court seeking bail pending the hearing of his appeal against a 20-year prison sentence.
The application, filed by his legal team, Zoe, Akyea and Co., requests the court to grant Wontumi temporary release from custody while the Court of Appeal considers his challenge to the conviction.
Wontumi is currently serving a 20-year sentence after being convicted over illegal mining activities at Samreboi. His lawyers argue that he should be granted bail while the appellate process is underway.
In the motion before the High Court, the legal team asked the court to admit their client to bail pending appeal, relying on the grounds outlined in a supporting affidavit.
The application states: “Take Notice that this Honourable Court will be moved by Counsel for and on behalf of the 1st Appellant/Applicant… praying the Court for an order that the Applicant, who is currently incarcerated at the Nsawam Medium Security Prisons, be admitted to bail pending appeal upon the grounds stated in the accompanying affidavit and for any further order(s) as this Honourable Court may deem meet.”
The application represents the latest legal move by Wontumi’s lawyers to secure his temporary release following his conviction. If granted, he would remain out of custody while the Court of Appeal determines the case.
The High Court is expected to consider whether the application satisfies the legal requirements for bail pending appeal.
Chairman Wontumi was sentenced to 20 years’ imprisonment after being found guilty of engaging in illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, at Samreboi. The case has drawn significant public and political attention due to its high-profile nature.
