Former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has expressed serious concern over the arrest and continued detention of Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
In a strongly worded statement, Bawumia emphasised the importance of due process, rule of law, and the protection of constitutional rights, noting that the charges against Chairman Wontumi remain unclear and that his current whereabouts are unknown.
“I am deeply concerned about the arrest and continued detention of the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi-Boasiako (Wontumi), particularly as the charges remain vague, and his whereabouts remain unknown,” Bawumia stated.
Rule of law and democracy must prevail
Dr. Bawumia reiterated that in a democratic society like Ghana, no one is above the law, but also stressed that no citizen—regardless of political affiliation or status—should be denied their legal rights.
“Justice and due process are not optional; they are the foundation of our democracy,” he asserted, urging respect for legal principles in all state actions.
Bawumia in contact with legal team
He confirmed being in constant communication with Chairman Wontumi’s legal team since the news broke, expressing confidence in their professionalism and dedication to upholding the law.
“I commend them for their professionalism and vigilance,” Bawumia added.
Call to EOCO and state institutions
Bawumia called on the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) and other state institutions involved in the case to act within the confines of the Ghanaian Constitution.
“Any deviation from these principles risks undermining public trust in our justice system and weakening the democratic values we have worked hard to build,” he warned.
I am deeply concerned about the arrest and continued detention of the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Mr. Bernard Antwi-Boasiako (Wontumi), particularly as the charges remain vague, and his whereabouts remain unknown.
In a democratic environment as… pic.twitter.com/OLL1oqVzL1
— Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia (@MBawumia) May 28, 2025
