Wontumi’s Bail Hearing Adjourned to October 15 as Court Cites Judge’s Unavailability

The Accra High Court has postponed the hearing of a bail application filed by former New Patriotic Party (NPP) Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.

The matter, which was expected to be heard on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, has now been rescheduled for October 15, 2026.

Wontumi’s legal team was expected to argue for his release pending the determination of his appeal against his conviction and sentence. However, the proceedings could not go ahead because both his lead lawyer, Samuel Atta Akyea, and Wontumi himself were not present in court.

The NPP’s Director of Legal Affairs, Gary Nimako, attended the proceedings to represent the party.

According to the court clerk, the judge handling the matter was unavailable and would not be sitting during the week. The development therefore resulted in the bail hearing being adjourned to a later date.

Deputy Attorney-General Justice Srem-Sai was also in court on behalf of the state.

Wontumi’s 20-year prison sentence

Chairman Wontumi is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence following his conviction by the Accra High Court over illegal mining-related offences.

The charges relate to mining activities connected to a concession at Samreboi in the Western Region.

Following his conviction and sentencing, his lawyers filed an application in August seeking bail while his appeal against both the conviction and sentence is considered.

The application has, however, been strongly opposed by the Attorney-General’s Office.

The state has argued that Wontumi could be a flight risk if granted bail before the conclusion of the appeal process.

With the court unable to proceed with the application on Wednesday, the matter has been fixed for October 15, 2026, when the High Court is expected to hear arguments from both sides.

The upcoming hearing will determine whether Wontumi will be granted temporary freedom while he pursues his appeal or remain in custody throughout the process.