An Accra High Court has given the Attorney-General's Office and lawyers for Bernard Antwi-Boasiako until July 6, 2026, to report on plea bargain discussions. These discussions relate to an alleged GHS 30 million fraud case involving the Ghana Export-Import Bank (EXIM Bank) and Wontumi Farms Limited. Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, also known as Chairman Wontumi, is the Ashanti Regional New Patriotic Party Chairman.
Prosecutors allege Wontumi Farms Limited, solely owned by Antwi-Boasiako, fraudulently obtained GHS 14.3 million from EXIM Bank between 2018 and 2022. The company initially sought a GHS 19 million facility in January 2018 for a farming venture. Investigators claim supporting documents, including a board resolution and project proposal, predated the company's incorporation in December 2017. Prosecutors further allege personal diversion of funds and a forged receipt for an additional GHS 4 million facility. The total alleged financial loss across all counts exceeds GHS 30 million.
This case highlights concerns about the use of public funds and financial oversight in Ghana. Large-scale financial fraud cases can erode public trust in state financial institutions. They can also impact the government's ability to support critical sectors like agriculture. Plea bargains, as outlined in Act 1079, aim to expedite justice and recover state assets. However, they also raise questions about transparency and accountability for public officials and prominent figures. The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) began investigating this matter in March 2025.
The Attorney-General's Office confirmed Wontumi initiated plea bargain steps, according to a June 11, 2026 filing. This was done under Section 162C(3) of Act 30. A plea bargain allows an accused person to plead guilty to lesser charges for a reduced sentence. The court must approve any agreement reached, after the Attorney-General assesses factors like evidence strength and fund recovery. Chairman Wontumi faces four charges: defrauding by false pretences, uttering forged documents, money laundering, and intentionally causing financial loss to a public body. He pleaded not guilty to all charges on May 18, 2026.
Decision-makers and citizens will closely watch the court's proceedings on July 6, 2026. This date will determine if a plea agreement has been finalized or if the trial will proceed. The outcome will have implications for public accountability and the efforts to recover significant state funds. It will also test the effectiveness of Ghana's legal framework for combating financial crime. The case continues to represent a key moment for Ghana's anti-corruption efforts and the rule of law.