Ghana
An Accra High Court is set to deliver its ruling today, March 16, 2026, on a submission of no case filed by lawyers representing Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, in an ongoing trial concerning alleged illegal mining activities at Samreboi.
Chairman Wontumi, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), along with two others, is facing charges for allegedly permitting mining operations on the Samreboi concession of Akonta Mining without the requisite authorization.
The prosecution contends that the accused assigned mining rights on the concession to a third party without approval from the responsible ministry, contravening Section 14 of the Minerals and Mining Act, which prohibits mining without lawful authority.
The court's decision on the no-case submission will determine whether the charges against the accused will be dismissed or if they will be required to present their defense.
Previously, the court had varied the bail conditions granted to Chairman Wontumi. The judge noted that the investigator failed to comply with the directive to file periodic reports confirming that the accused remained within the jurisdiction. Consequently, the court adjusted the reporting requirements to address this non-compliance.
This case has garnered significant public interest due to Chairman Wontumi's prominent political position and the broader implications for illegal mining activities in Ghana.
The ruling today is expected to have substantial legal and political ramifications, potentially influencing future enforcement of mining regulations and the accountability of public figures involved in such activities.
Citizens and stakeholders are keenly awaiting the court's decision, which will provide clarity on the legal standing of the accused and set a precedent for similar cases in the future.
