Ghana
The High Court in Accra is scheduled to determine today, March 16, 2026, whether Bernard Antwi Boasiako, known as Chairman Wontumi, and two others should open their defense in an ongoing criminal case.
Chairman Wontumi, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), along with his co-accused, is facing charges related to alleged illegal mining activities on the Samreboi concession of Akonta Mining.
The prosecution has closed its case after calling four witnesses, and the court must now decide if a prima facie case has been established against the accused.
During a status hearing on March 10, 2026, the Deputy Attorney General urged the court to dismiss the no-case submission filed by the defense and direct the accused to present their defense.
The defense counsel requested additional time to respond to the Attorney General's reply, and the court directed the defense to submit its response by March 13, ahead of today's ruling.
The outcome of today's ruling will determine whether the accused will be acquitted and discharged or required to open their defense.
This case has attracted significant public attention due to the high-profile nature of the accused and the broader implications for illegal mining activities in Ghana.
The court's decision is expected to set a precedent for similar cases and influence the enforcement of mining regulations in the country.
Stakeholders and citizens are closely monitoring the proceedings, anticipating a ruling that will uphold the rule of law and ensure accountability in the mining sector.
