Former New Patriotic Party Ashanti Regional Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, is facing a fresh set of charges in connection with an alleged financial loss involving the Ghana Export-Import Bank. The prosecution filed a new charge sheet on September 22, 2026, after plea negotiations between the state and Wontumi's legal team failed to produce an agreement. The case was adjourned to October 13, 2026.
The new charges include defrauding by false pretences, uttering a forged document, money laundering, and causing financial loss to the state. The allegations relate to the alleged defrauding of Ghana EXIM Bank of more than GH¢14 million, with the prosecution estimating the resulting loss to the state at about GH¢30 million. Wontumi was initially arraigned on May 18, 2026, and pleaded not guilty to the charges brought against him.
Wontumi's legal team, initially led by Andy Appiah-Kubi and later by Samuel Atta Akyea, entered into negotiations with the state. Deputy Attorney-General Dr Justice Srem-Sai said on July 27 that the discussions were "far advanced", but the negotiations eventually broke down without an agreement. The prosecution returned to court on September 22 and sought to withdraw the earlier charge sheet.
Wontumi's lawyers objected to proceeding immediately with the new charges, citing the timing of their service on the defence. The court granted the adjournment request and fixed October 13 for the case to continue, when Wontumi is expected to enter a fresh plea. Wontumi is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence following his conviction in a separate case involving illegal mining-related offences.
The case has been ongoing for several months, with multiple developments and adjournments. The prosecution and Wontumi's lawyers had been engaged in plea negotiations, but ultimately failed to reach an agreement. The fresh charges have added a new layer of complexity to the case.
The alleged fraud case has significant implications for Ghana's financial sector, particularly with regards to the Ghana EXIM Bank. The bank's role in supporting exporters and importers has been compromised by the alleged fraudulent activities. The case is expected to continue on October 13, 2026.
Wontumi's situation has raised concerns about corruption and accountability in Ghana's public sector. The case is one of several high-profile corruption cases in the country, and its outcome is expected to have far-reaching consequences. The court is yet to rule on the fresh charges, and Wontumi's fate remains uncertain.
Key points
- Chairman Wontumi faces new charges in alleged GH¢30m EXIM Bank fraud case
- Plea negotiations between the state and Wontumi's lawyers broke down without an agreement
- Wontumi is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence for a separate case involving illegal mining-related offences
