Lawyer for New Patriotic Party (NPP) Ashanti Regional Chairman Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, Andy Appiah-Kubi, has described the upcoming judgment in the Samreboi illegal mining case as a decisive moment that could result in either public vindication or condemnation depending on the court’s findings.
Speaking to journalists, Mr. Appiah-Kubi said the evidence presented in the trial places the outcome at two extreme possibilities, arguing that the final ruling will significantly shape perceptions of those involved in the decision.
“The evidence available provides us with two possible outcomes, shame or glory. So whoever takes the decision on the case and the evidence presented to the court, either the person will be disgraced or will be glorified by the final judgment,” he stated.
His remarks come as the High Court prepares to deliver judgment in the case, which involves allegations of illegal mining activities in Samreboi.
Mr. Appiah-Kubi also confirmed that although his earlier application to withdraw from representing Chairman Wontumi was dismissed by the court, he still intends to formally file a notice of withdrawal to exit the case.
The court had previously ruled that his motion lacked legal basis and contained procedural defects, including failure to serve the application on his client.
The trial involves charges against Chairman Wontumi, Akonta Mining Company Limited, and Kwame Antwi, who is currently at large. The accused persons are alleged to have engaged in the assignment of mineral rights without approval and facilitating unlicensed mining operations, offences under the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703), as amended by Act 995.
All accused persons have pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The case remains scheduled for judgment on July 3, 2026, with the court extending the deadline for filing written addresses to June 24, 2026.
