Chairman Wontumi released by EOCO after meeting bail conditions

The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, known as Chairman Wontumi, has been released from custody. He met his bail conditions set by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO).

NPP General Secretary Justin Kodua confirmed his release on Monday evening. He praised Dr. Bryan Acheampong for helping with one of the sureties.

Chairman Wontumi was granted bail of GH₵50 million. He needed two sureties to be justified after his arrest on May 27. This was part of investigations into alleged fraud, money laundering, and causing financial loss to the state.

There are also concerns about a possible link to an international crime syndicate. This information came from Deputy Attorney-General Justice Srem-Sai.

The Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) is preparing its own investigation into Wontumi’s activities. This is separate from ongoing EOCO and Criminal Investigations Department (CID) probes.

His release followed intense legal efforts and political pressure. Initially, Wontumi's legal team struggled with the high bail terms, leading to days in detention.

On May 30, lead counsel Andy Appiah-Kubi confirmed that all necessary documents were ready. Former Minister Bryan Acheampong helped significantly with this process.

Despite meeting bail conditions on Friday, there was a delay due to a "legal challenge." An application was filed to review the bail conditions.

Wontumi's lawyers were hopeful this issue would be resolved by June 2. The application has since been withdrawn, allowing for his release.

During his detention, many NPP Members of Parliament and supporters protested for his release. They described the bail conditions as excessive and politically motivated.

The application to review these conditions was set for June 3 but was withdrawn on Monday. While released, Chairman Wontumi must fully cooperate with the ongoing investigation as part of his bail terms.