Chairman Wontumi hospitalised after arrest - Lawyer says interrogation suspended

Legal counsel for Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NPP, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, has confirmed his hospitalization.

This follows his arrest and interrogation by state security officers.

Lawyer Andy Appiah-Kubi spoke to reporters after lengthy legal proceedings. He revealed that Wontumi fell ill during questioning and was taken to a hospital.

“My client has been taken to the hospital for medical treatment,” he said.

The interrogation is not finished yet. They hope to continue tomorrow if Wontumi's condition improves. If not, he will stay in the hospital until doctors discharge him.

Wontumi's arrest has been described by NPP leaders as “intimidatory.” Party officials say he initially went to the CID headquarters voluntarily. He was responding to questions when heavily armed, masked officers detained him.

Details of the allegations against him are unclear. Mr. Appiah-Kubi mentioned that police had “preferred some allegations” against Wontumi, who had already responded.

However, the interrogation stopped due to his health issues.

In another development, Mr. Appiah-Kubi revealed that Exim Bank served a writ of summons on Wontumi earlier that day. This adds a civil aspect to the situation.

“We received a writ of summons from Exim Bank this afternoon,” he confirmed. “We will respond to it tomorrow.”

He expressed hope in mounting a defense against both cases.

Mr. Appiah-Kubi emphasized the difference between civil and criminal matters in this case.

“This is part of a supposed criminal investigation,” he stated confidently about their defense strategy.

“We consider the Exim Bank issue a civil matter,” he added regarding their court response.

Wontumi’s hospitalization increases tension in an already charged political atmosphere within the NPP.

Several party leaders have condemned his arrest as politically motivated and reminiscent of past intimidation tactics.

As they await updates on Wontumi’s health and legal status, Mr. Appiah-Kubi assured that the NPP will engage with the process without fear.

“We’re cooperating and believe in the rule of law,” he stated firmly.

The party plans to provide further updates as events unfold.