Wontumi’s arrest was 'totally wrong' — Abu Jinapor warns against politicisation of justice

Former Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor, has condemned the arrest of Bernard Antwi Boasiako. He is the Ashanti Regional New Patriotic Party (NPP) Chairman, known as Chairman Wontumi. Jinapor called the incident “totally, totally wrong” and a threat to Ghana’s democracy.

Chairman Wontumi was arrested on May 27, 2025. This followed an invitation from the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) for questioning about illegal mining activities.

On JoyNews’ The Pulse Show on June 4, Jinapor expressed concern over using legal processes for political purposes. He believes this undermines justice.

“We must ensure that the rule of law prevails,” he stated. “Right is right, wrong is wrong.” He emphasized that if the law works fairly, it benefits everyone.

Jinapor warned against selective justice and political silence. He referenced Adolf Hitler's regime in Germany during World War II.

“During that time, people were arrested without protest,” he noted. “Those who stayed silent became victims.”

He suggested that Chairman Wontumi’s arrest seemed like a deliberate punishment disguised as legality.

“It looks like they want to teach him a lesson,” Jinapor said. “This approach is totally wrong.”

He criticized how bail can be used punitively instead of justly.

“The grant or denial of bail should not be about punishment or politics,” he explained.

Jinapor questioned the motives behind Wontumi's arrest. He suggested it was part of a strategy to punish political opponents.

“Chairman Wontumi is being targeted to send a message,” he said. “That is not how democracy should function.”

After nearly a week in EOCO custody, Chairman Wontumi was granted bail on June 2, 2025. His bail was set at GH₵50 million with two sureties.

One surety was Dr. Bryan Acheampong, MP for Abetifi and Minister for Food and Agriculture. NPP General Secretary Justin Kodua Frimpong confirmed these conditions and thanked Dr. Acheampong for his support.