Lead counsel for Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, the chairman of the Ashanti Regional New Patriotic Party, commonly known as Chairman Wontumi, has withdrawn from representing him in a criminal case involving Akonta Mining. The attorney, Andy Appiah-Kubi, cited dissatisfaction with the conduct of court proceedings as the reason for his decision. On Thursday, June 11, he expressed his concerns regarding the “attitude, record, and determinations” of the court handling the case.
“My disappointment lies in the attitude, record, and determinations of the court thus far,” he stated in an interview with Eyewitness News. He added that his withdrawal has been formally submitted through a motion and affidavit. The case, which involves Akonta Mining Limited and Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, is currently before Criminal Court 4 and has been adjourned to June 16 for continued cross-examination of a prosecution witness.
Appiah-Kubi rejected suggestions that his withdrawal was linked to ongoing plea bargain discussions in a separate EXIM Bank-related fraud case, insisting the matters are distinct. He added that he will continue to represent Antwi-Boasiako in other pending legal matters. Prosecutors allege that Akonta Mining carried out mining activities in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve without required approvals from state authorities, including the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources.
The accused have denied wrongdoing.
Source: Jonathan Ofori
