March 11, 2026
Chairman Wontumi: A Profile of Controversy, Legal Battles, and Political Ambitions
Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, stands as one of the most polarizing figures in Ghanaian politics. Born on May 1, 1976, in the Ashanti Region, he has risen from humble beginnings to become a prominent businessman and key player in the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
At 50 years old, Wontumi serves as the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NPP, a position he has held since 2014 after winning internal elections in 2018 and 2022.
His journey includes stints abroad, such as working as a cleaner in the UK, before returning to Ghana to build a business empire that reportedly includes over 100 houses and significant wealth estimated at over $100 million. Yet, his career is marred by scandals, legal troubles, and bold political maneuvers that keep him in the public eye.
The Ongoing Court Case and Legal Entanglements
Wontumi’s legal woes have intensified in recent years, culminating in a highprofile trial at the Accra High Court. He faces six counts related to illegal mining activities through his company, Akonta Mining Limited. Prosecutors allege that in 2024, Wontumi permitted two individuals, Henry Okum and Michael Ayisi Gyedu, to conduct mining operations on the company’s concession in Samreboi, Western Region, without the required ministerial approval from the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources.
This violates sections of Ghana’s Minerals and Mining Act, including assignment of mineral rights without clearance and facilitating unlicensed mining. The trial began after his arrest in late 2025, where he pleaded not guilty and was granted bail of GH¢15 million with sureties. Bail conditions were later varied, removing some supervisory requirements from investigators.
As of March 11, 2026, the court is set to rule on March 16 whether Wontumi must open his defense or be acquitted following a nocase submission by his lawyers. The state plans to oppose this motion vigorously.
Additionally, nearly GH¢50 million in his accounts has been frozen amid investigations into fraud, forgery, money laundering, and causing financial loss to the state, stemming from an alleged fraudulent loan from the Ghana ExportImport Bank. These charges highlight broader concerns over political figures’ involvement in resource exploitation.
Previous Comments on the Mahama Administration and Family
Wontumi has a history of making inflammatory remarks, particularly targeting former President John Dramani Mahama and his family during the NPP’s time in power. In 2019, he alleged that Mahama’s brother, Ibrahim Mahama, had an affair with a daughter of the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, during her honeymoon.
This claim sparked outrage and accusations of defamation. In 2020, Wontumi criticized Mahama for “flaunting” his daughter, Farida Mahama, on social media, warning that she should be hidden to avoid unwanted attention. He suggested that such exposure could lead to inappropriate advances, drawing condemnation from figures like actress Ama K. Abebrese for objectifying the young woman.
These statements were part of a broader pattern of verbal attacks on the Mahama administration, accusing it of corruption and mismanagement. However, following the NPP’s loss in the 2024 elections, Wontumi publicly apologized to Mahama for any wrongs, acknowledging past actions in a bid for reconciliation. Critics view this as a strategic shift amid his legal troubles and the changing political landscape.
Illegal Mining Allegations
Central to Wontumi’s controversies are persistent allegations of involvement in galamsey, Ghana’s rampant illegal small-scale mining that has devastated forests and water bodies. As owner of Akonta Mining, he has been accused of operating without proper licenses in protected areas like the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve.
Reports from 2022 highlighted unauthorized activities, leading to environmental destruction and violations of mining laws. The current trial stems from these claims, with the prosecution calling four witnesses to testify on how Wontumi allegedly facilitated unlicensed operations.
Despite government crackdowns on galamsey under both NPP and NDC administrations, Wontumi’s case underscores how politically connected individuals often evade immediate consequences. Environmental groups and opposition voices have long called for accountability, pointing to his role as a symbol of entrenched impunity in the sector.
Continuing Freedom and Political Engagements.
Despite facing serious charges, Wontumi remains free on bail and actively engaged in politics. His ability to “roam free” stems from the judicial process, where he has met bail requirements and benefited from adjournments.
Supporters held vigils during his brief detention, pressuring for his release, which highlights his influence within the NPP base. He continues to attend party events, including thanksgiving services, and uses his media platform, Wontumi TV, to promote NPP agendas.
Recent social media posts reflect ongoing public discourse about his legal issues, with some mocking his courtroom encounters and others debating his political viability.This freedom allows him to campaign unabated, even as frozen assets and investigations loom.
Potential Future in the Next NPP Government
On February 4, 2026, Wontumi declared his candidacy for NPP National Chairman, vowing to unify the party after its 2024 defeat and position it for victory in 2028. He emphasized grassroots empowerment and principled leadership, consulting party elders before announcing.
If he wins the internal election, expected later in 2026, Wontumi could play a pivotal role in reshaping the NPP. Should the NPP regain power in 2028, his chairmanship might afford him influence in government appointments or policy, particularly in regions like Ashanti. However, ongoing legal battles pose risks; a conviction could bar him from office or tarnish the party’s image. Critics argue his controversies make him a liability, while supporters see his resilience as an asset.
As Ghana navigates post2024 politics, Wontumi’s trajectory will test the interplay between accountability and ambition.
