I do not engage in galamsey – Chairman Wontumi

Bernard Antwi Boasiako, known as Chairman Wontumi, is the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP). He has stated that he is not involved in illegal mining, or galamsey.

In an interview after being questioned by the CID, he said, “I was invited by the police and charged with galamsey.” He showed his license to prove he does not engage in illegal mining.

Wontumi also addressed claims that he was working in a forest. He insisted it wasn’t him and asked for evidence. He had previously applied for a license there but was informed it was given to the Forestry Commission.

He denied allegations of receiving GH₵50 million from COCOBOD before leaving office. Wontumi called these claims absolutely untrue.

On May 26, after being granted bail in another case, he told reporters about COCOBOD. “It is absolutely untrue that I collected money from COCOBOD,” he stated.

He explained how government payments work for road construction projects. Contractors use their own funds upfront and are reimbursed later based on project assessments.

Wontumi claimed COCOBOD took nearly three years to pay him. “So COCOBOD cannot claim they do not owe me,” he added.

Currently, Chairman Wontumi has been granted bail and must report to the CID again today, May 27, 2025.

Superintendent Joseph Benefo Darkwah from the CID announced three allegations against Wontumi:
1. Mining without a license
2. Polluting water bodies
3. Entering a forest reserve without permission

The police noted that Wontumi cooperated with investigators and provided his statement before being released on bail.