Minority MPs walk out of Parliament over 'harsh' bail conditions for Chairman Wontumi

Minority MPs in Parliament staged a walkout. They protested the detention of Bernard Antwi Boasiako, known as Chairman Wontumi. He is the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

Chairman Wontumi was arrested by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) on May 27. This happened after he reported to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for questioning. He was held at EOCO's head office in Accra.

His lawyer, Andy Appiah Kubi, confirmed that Wontumi is under investigation. The allegations involve causing financial loss to the state.

Wontumi was granted bail of GH¢50 million with two sureties. However, he spent the night in custody because he could not meet bail conditions.

On May 29, Mr. Afenyo-Markin spoke in Parliament about the situation. He announced that the Minority would boycott all proceedings until EOCO changes Wontumi's bail conditions and releases him.

“The NPP side will protest by absenting ourselves from this House,” said the Minority Leader. He urged his colleagues on the Majority side to show solidarity.

Before leaving, Minority MPs stood up and chanted a line from Ghana’s national anthem. They repeated it as they walked out in defiance.

After exiting the chamber, they announced plans to walk to EOCO's offices. It is about a 30-minute trek from Parliament.