Embattled Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has turned to the High Court in Accra in a bid to ease what his legal team describes as “punitive” bail conditions imposed by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO).
On May 30, 2025, Wontumi’s lawyers, Marfo & Associates, filed a formal motion seeking a review of the GH₵50 million bail set by EOCO, along with its accompanying requirements of two justified sureties. The team contends that the bail terms are not only excessive but are being used as a tool to delay his release.
The legal team argues in its affidavit that the conditions are “oppressive and disproportionate,” especially given the nature of the allegations, which include financial crimes such as fraud and money laundering.
The High Court is expected to hear the motion on June 3, 2025, at 9:00 am. During the proceedings, Wontumi’s counsel will press for a reduction or variation of the bail terms to allow for a fair and timely resolution of the matter.
Chairman Wontumi remains in EOCO custody, having only secured one of the two required sureties since his arrest earlier this week. The outcome of the court hearing could significantly affect the timeline of his release.
Meanwhile, leadership of the party was unsuccessful in their attempt to have access to Chairman Wontumi, at the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) headquarters in Accra.
Wontumi was reportedly transferred to the NIB following his detention by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) as part of an ongoing criminal investigation.
Despite being granted permission to enter the NIB premises at Ridge on Friday, May 30, former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia and Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin confirmed after exiting the facility that they were unable to meet with Wontumi.
