Andy Appiah-Kubi, lawyer for Ashanti Regional New Patriotic Party (NPP) Chairman Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has withdrawn from representing his client in the ongoing Akonta Mining criminal case, citing concerns over the conduct of the proceedings and the court’s handling of the matter.
Speaking on Eyewitness News on Thursday, June 11, he disclosed that his decision was largely influenced by what he described as his disappointment with the attitude, record and determinations of the court in its management of the case.
“I have withdrawn from the Akonta Mining case in Criminal Court 4 with stated reasons in the affidavit in support of my motion. My disappointment is in the attitude, record and the determinations of the court so far in handling these matters before the court. I’m so totally disappointed that is why I am withdrawing,” he stated.
Appiah-Kubi also dismissed suggestions that his withdrawal is linked to the plea bargaining discussions involving Chairman Wontumi on the EXIM Bank alleged fraud case, insisting that the two cases are distinct and should not be conflated.
However, he maintained that he would continue to represent Chairman Wontumi in all his other legal matters, including the ongoing EXIM Bank case, stressing that his withdrawal is limited solely to the Akonta Mining prosecution.
His comments come as the case involving the Republic, Akonta Mining Limited and Bernard Antwi-Boasiako remains before the courts, with proceedings adjourned to June 16 for the continuation of the cross-examination of a prosecution witness.
The prosecution alleges that Akonta Mining carried out mining activities within the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve without the necessary approvals from state authorities, including the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources.
Bernard Antwi-Boasiako and his company have denied wrongdoing, while the trial forms part of broader efforts by the state to tackle illegal mining activities, commonly known as galamsey, which continue to threaten Ghana’s forests and water bodies.
