Tensions ran high at the Accra High Court on May 21, 2026, as Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi, appeared visibly emotional while testifying in an ongoing illegal mining case involving his company, Akonta Mining Limited.
The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), who took the witness stand as part of his defence, struggled to maintain composure during a tense cross-examination. At one point, proceedings briefly paused when he requested water, highlighting the pressure surrounding the high-profile trial.
The case, which has drawn national attention, centers on allegations that Wontumi and Akonta Mining unlawfully assigned mining rights and facilitated illegal mining—commonly referred to as galamsey—contrary to provisions of Ghana’s Minerals and Mining Act.
During his testimony, Wontumi firmly denied all six charges against him. He told the court that he is a 49-year-old entrepreneur and a director and shareholder of Akonta Mining, which he said holds a valid 10-year lease for mining operations in the Samreboi area of the Western Region, granted in July 2021.
Addressing claims that he authorized illegal mining activities, Wontumi rejected the accusations, insisting he never assigned mining rights to third parties without the required ministerial approval. He acknowledged granting permission to a prosecution witness, Henry Okum, but clarified that it was strictly for land reclamation and coconut planting on already degraded land—not for mineral extraction.
He further told the court that he did not receive any financial benefit from illegal mining and had no knowledge of unauthorized operations on unmined sections of the concession. According to him, his involvement with Okum was limited to helping identify equipment suppliers for reclamation purposes.
Wontumi also challenged the strength of the prosecution’s case, arguing that it relies heavily on uncorroborated testimony and lacks documentary evidence. He urged the court to acquit and discharge both himself and Akonta Mining.
As part of his defence, he presented a supplementary statement, including a letter dated April 19, 2021, addressed to the Western Regional Security Council (REGSEC). The letter raised concerns about an influx of illegal miners—mostly foreign nationals—on the company’s concession and called for security intervention to curb environmental damage and enforce the law.
Following the day’s proceedings, the court adjourned the case to May 28, 2026, to allow the defence to file additional witness statements. The court has also indicated that failure to comply with filing requirements within the stipulated timeframe could lead to judgment being delivered.
The outcome of the case is expected to have significant implications for the ongoing national fight against illegal mining and environmental degradation.
