Lawyer for Ashanti Regional New Patriotic Party (NPP) Chairman, Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, Andy Appiah-Kubi, has withdrawn from representing his client in the ongoing Akonta Mining criminal case.
Speaking on Eyewitness News on Thursday, June 11, 2026, Appiah-Kubi explained that his decision stemmed from concerns about how the case has been handled by the court. According to him, he is dissatisfied with the court’s attitude, record, and determinations throughout the proceedings.
“I have withdrawn from the Akonta Mining case in Criminal Court 4 with stated reasons in the affidavit in support of my motion. My disappointment is in the attitude, record and the determinations of the court so far in handling these matters before the court. I’m so totally disappointed that is why I am withdrawing,” he stated.
The lawyer also rejected claims that his withdrawal was connected to ongoing plea bargaining discussions involving Chairman Wontumi in the EXIM Bank alleged fraud case. He stressed that the two matters are separate and should not be linked.
Despite stepping away from the Akonta Mining case, Appiah-Kubi clarified that he remains legal counsel for Chairman Wontumi in all other matters, including the EXIM Bank case. He emphasized that his withdrawal applies only to the Akonta Mining prosecution.
His remarks come as the case involving the Republic, Akonta Mining Limited, and Bernard Antwi-Boasiako remains before the courts. Proceedings have been adjourned to June 16 to allow for the continuation of the cross-examination of a prosecution witness.
The prosecution alleges that Akonta Mining conducted mining activities within the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve without obtaining the required approvals from state authorities, including the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources.
However, Bernard Antwi-Boasiako and his company have denied any wrongdoing. The trial forms part of the state’s broader efforts to combat illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, which continues to pose a significant threat to Ghana’s forests and water bodies.
Source: Nana Achiaa Aboagye