Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has publicly refuted allegations linking him to illegal mining operations in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve.
In a strongly worded social media post, Chairman Wontumi described the accusations as false and malicious, insisting that he has no connection whatsoever to the alleged galamsey activities. He maintained that he has always respected the rule of law and remains willing to cooperate fully with the justice system to clear his name.
“I am not above the law, and I will always subject myself to it. But please, let’s stop twisting lies into truth. I was never part of any illegal activity in the Tano Nimiri Forest,” he stated.
The NPP regional chairman, who is currently standing trial for allegedly felling trees and engaging in illegal mining in the forest reserve, has pleaded not guilty and has been granted bail.
Addressing the matter further, Wontumi revealed that he had reached out privately to security operative Elikem, whose reports had linked him to the forest mining activities. According to him, the call was made to express his displeasure over what he termed “false claims” and not to influence any investigation.
“In that private call, I told you clearly that I, Wontumi, have no interest, no investment, and no hand in any illegal mining activity. I even told you to arrest everyone, seize every machine and vehicle, and check the documents to see if my name appears anywhere,” his post read.
He expressed disappointment over what he described as a deliberate attempt to tarnish his image through media commentary, adding that the public should allow the legal process to determine the truth.
“Like any human being, I have my flaws — but this deliberate attempt to humiliate me is cruel and disappointing,” he wrote, urging calm and patience as the matter proceeds in court.
Chairman Wontumi’s statement comes amid heightened public interest in the government’s ongoing fight against illegal mining, as several high-profile figures face scrutiny over alleged links to galamsey operations.
