Don’t weaponise bail system against ordinary citizens – Zaato to govt

Dr. Joshua Jebuntie Zaato is a Senior Lecturer at the University of Ghana. He has raised concerns about Ghana’s bail system. He fears it could be misused to target ordinary citizens unfairly.

Dr. Zaato spoke on Channel One TV’s Breakfast Daily on May 29. His comments came amid rising political tensions after the arrest of Bernard Antwi Boasiako, known as Chairman Wontumi. Wontumi is the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

On May 28, the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) granted Wontumi bail. The bail was set at GHS50 million with two sureties required. His lawyer, Andy Appiah-Kubi, confirmed these terms after hours of interrogation at EOCO.

Wontumi is under investigation for alleged financial dealings with EXIM Bank. However, EOCO has not released full details about the case.

His arrest led to a strong reaction from NPP supporters and leaders. Many gathered outside EOCO to demand his release.

Dr. Zaato warned against creating a dangerous precedent that could lead to injustice. He stated that four months is not enough time to fight galamsey effectively but can change public perception.

He urged caution against using the bail system as a weapon against ordinary people.