“Retaliatory politics” not Healthy for Ghana – Kosi Dedey on Wontumi arrest

Policy analyst Michael Kosi Dedey has criticized the arrest of Bernard Antwi Boasiako. He is the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), also known as Chairman Wontumi. Dedey called this arrest part of a troubling trend in Ghanaian politics.

He spoke on Channel One TV’s Breakfast Daily on May 28. Dedey warned that using state institutions for political revenge harms public trust in governance. He urged security agencies to reflect on their professionalism.

"This government needs to behave," he said. "We are running this country like 'you do me, I do you.' This retaliatory politics is unhealthy."

Wontumi was arrested by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) on May 27. This happened after he attended questioning at the Criminal Investigations Department (CID). The details of his case are still unclear.

Wontumi had previously faced allegations related to illegal mining. These include operating without a license and polluting water bodies. He also allegedly entered a forest reserve unlawfully.

His arrest angered NPP supporters, leading many to gather at EOCO headquarters in Accra. Security forces increased their presence, including military personnel, to manage tensions.

During his interrogation, Wontumi reportedly fell ill and was taken to a hospital. This incident drew more public attention.

Dedey emphasized that accountability should not compromise fairness or due process. "Is this how we treat a citizen?" he asked.

He cautioned that ongoing political vengeance could damage trust in Ghana's democratic institutions. It may also deepen political divisions among citizens.

"Is this justice or political vengeance?" he questioned, highlighting concerns among Ghanaians about these issues.