GHS50m bail set to prevent Wontumi’s timely release – Bawumia

Former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has criticized the bail conditions for Ashanti Regional NPP Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako, known as Chairman Wontumi. He called the GHS50 million bail bond excessive and aimed at delaying Wontumi's release.

Dr. Bawumia spoke to party supporters and the media at the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) in Accra on May 30. He expressed concern over the high bail amount set by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO). “I do not know how many people in Ghana have property worth GHS50 million,” he said.

He believes these conditions are meant to prevent a timely release. Bawumia assured party members that they would pursue legal avenues for Wontumi’s release. He urged supporters to remain calm during this process.

“We will follow due legal processes to ensure his release,” he stated. He asked everyone to stay calm and avoid taking matters into their own hands. His comments come amid rising political tension surrounding Wontumi’s arrest.

Many NPP Members of Parliament, senior executives, and supporters have gathered at the NIB in solidarity since his transfer from EOCO. Chairman Wontumi was first arrested by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) on May 27, then picked up by EOCO, which granted him bail the next day.

However, strict conditions have kept him detained, leading to criticism from various political groups. Tensions escalated on May 29 when Minority Members of Parliament protested outside EOCO headquarters for Wontumi's immediate release.

Meanwhile, Deputy Attorney General Justice Srem-Sai confirmed that Wontumi is under investigation for serious charges like fraud and money laundering.