Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, will remain in the custody of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) and the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) over the weekend, despite securing a 50 million cedi bail package.
His lawyer, Andy Appiah Kubi, confirmed this to journalists late Friday, citing a “legal challenge” that has stalled the finalization of the bail conditions.
Lawyer Appiah Kubi, a seasoned legal practitioner, revealed that the legal bottleneck, which was not initiated by his team, had effectively frustrated efforts to complete the bail process.
“We encountered some difficulty which will be sorted out on Monday,” – Appiah Kubi stated. “It’s a legal challenge not caused by us, but it prohibits us from proceeding. If this application is withdrawn, we’ll be able to move forward.”
Chairman Wontumi was arrested earlier this week by EOCO in connection with an ongoing financial probe.
The embattled Ashanti Regional NPP Chairman was granted bail pegged at GH₵50 million, with stringent conditions including property verification. According to Lawyer Appiah Kubi, all securities required for the bail had been provided, with the help of former Agriculture Minister Bryan Acheampong, who submitted personal documents to support the process.
“I can assure you that we have provided the required securities. Honourable Bryan Acheampong has gone above and beyond to support us,” 1 the lawyer disclosed.
In a surprising show of political solidarity, former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia appeared at EOCO’s offices on Friday in an attempt to assist with Wontumi’s release. However, the situation on the ground proved too challenging to facilitate a direct meeting with the detained politician.
“We wanted him (Wontumi) to meet with the former Vice President, but the environment made it difficult. The crowd and circumstances didn’t allow for the meeting,” – Appiah Kubi explained.
He also assured the public that Wontumi is in good health and is receiving necessary medical attention while in EOCO custody. “He is healthy. There’s nothing to worry about in respect of his health,” he said.
Despite the legal delay, Appiah Kubi remained optimistic that the matter would be resolved promptly when court resumes on Monday.
“Hopefully, by Monday, when the application is withdrawn, we can complete the process and get him home.”
For now, Chairman Wontumi will spend the weekend under EOCO and NIB watch, as his legal team prepares to untangle the procedural knot that has kept the high-profile politician from regaining his freedom.
Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Ebenezer Madugu