The Ashanti Regional chapter of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) has raised concerns over the manner in which the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) handled the arrest of the party’s Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.
The party described the procedure used in the arrest as an “apparent show of power” that runs counter to good practices inherent in democratic systems of law.
The NPP questioned why EOCO would undertake investigations that the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) is capable of performing, and expressed worry that Wontumi’s lawyers have been denied access to him and are often unable to determine his whereabouts.
The party during a press conference on Friday May 30,2025 also highlighted that Wontumi, who is not in good health, has been denied access to a medical facility of his choice.
The press conference, led by the Ashanti Regional Secretary of the NPP Lawyer Kwame Adom Appiah, highlighted concerns over what they described as an “ambush-style” arrest.
He stated that They criticized the actions of EOCO, alleging mistreatment of Chairman Wontumi, including restricted access to his lawyer and family during his detention.
The Secretary expressed frustration with the ongoing judicial process, emphasizing that the party has been patient but is dissatisfied with the handling of the case.
Citing the principles of due process of law, the NPP called on EOCO to exercise its discretion in a judicious manner and reconsider its bail terms.
The party believes that granting reasonable bail terms is part of fairness, allowing Wontumi to prepare for his defense and seek medical care from his trusted medics.
The NPP thanked party officials and supporters who have shown solidarity with Wontumi and expressed their belief in his innocence, calling for reasonable bail terms to be extended to him.
Source: Ghana/otecfmghana.com/Jacob Agyenim Boateng
