The Criminal Division of the Accra High Court has directed Ashanti Regional NPP Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako—popularly known as Chairman Wontumi—to open his defence in an ongoing illegal mining case. The order, issued by Justice Audrey Kocuvie-Tay, followed the dismissal of a “no case” submission filed by Wontumi and his company, Akonta Mining Company Limited.
This ruling requires the accused to respond to charges brought by the prosecution. Wontumi and Akonta Mining face six counts of allegedly permitting Henry Okum and Michael Gyedu Ayisi to conduct mining operations on the company’s concession without ministerial approval.
They are also accused of facilitating unlicensed mining operations. The accused persons have pleaded not guilty to the charges. Following the court’s decision, the accused have been given seven days to inform the court of how they intend to proceed with their defence.
They are required to indicate whether they will remain silent and allow the court to determine the case based on the prosecution’s evidence, or whether Chairman Wontumi will testify in person and file witness statements from individuals he intends to call in his defence.
Source: Justice Agbenorsi & Joselyn Kafui Nyadzi
