Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for illegal mining activities. The Accra High Court also imposed a fine of GHS 120,000 on the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP). This verdict follows his conviction on charges related to illegal mining on the Samreboi concession in the Western Region.
Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey, convener of the Media Coalition Against Illegal Mining, welcomed the conviction as a significant milestone in Ghana's fight against illegal mining, locally known as 'galamsey'. However, Dr. Ashigbey expressed a preference for the maximum custodial sentence of 25 years, arguing that financiers and facilitators of illegal mining deserve the harshest possible punishment. He stated this on JoyNews on Monday, July 20, shortly after the court's decision.
This case underscores Ghana's ongoing struggle with illegal mining, which causes extensive environmental damage and economic losses. The conviction of a politically exposed person like Chairman Wontumi sends a strong signal about the government's commitment to tackling this issue. Previous efforts have included military operations and policy reforms, but enforcement against influential individuals has often been challenging. The court's decision could set a precedent for future prosecutions.
Justice Audrey Kocuvie-Tay presided over the case, delivering two concurrent 20-year prison terms. The court also stipulated a default custodial sentence if the GHS 120,000 fine, equivalent to 10,000 penalty units, remains unpaid. Dr. Ashigbey emphasized that Ghana's mining laws allow for fines, custodial sentences, or both, and he believes judges should apply the toughest penalties in cases involving politically exposed persons due to the immense damage caused.
Despite his call for a more severe sentence, Dr. Ashigbey hailed the conviction as a historic victory for Ghana and for organizations campaigning against illegal mining. He described it as a good day for the Media Coalition Against Galamsey and the Coalition Against Galamsey in Ghana. He highlighted the existential threat that illegal mining poses to all citizens, affecting water bodies, forests, and agricultural lands.
The prosecution of the Samreboi case originated from a petition submitted by the Media Coalition Against Illegal Mining to the then Attorney-General and Inspector-General of Police. Dr. Ashigbey confirmed that he, along with private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu and two other campaigners, personally followed the case from its inception. This long-term advocacy demonstrates the persistent efforts required to bring such cases to justice.
Dr. Ashigbey commended the current Attorney-General for ensuring the prosecution reached its conclusion. He also praised Justice Audrey Kocuvie-Tay for her courage in delivering judgment in one of Ghana's most closely watched illegal mining cases. Such judicial bravery is crucial in upholding the rule of law, especially when powerful figures are involved.
He further acknowledged the role of the current Minister for Lands and Natural Resources. Dr. Ashigbey recalled that during the Easter holidays in 2025, the minister urgently convened a press conference after reviewing the coalition's petition and investigating the allegations. He also lauded the former Minister for Lands and Natural Resources for publicly declaring Akonta Mining Company Limited's involvement in illegal mining within the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve. The then Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission, Martin Ayisi, later confirmed these findings.
However, Dr. Ashigbey lamented that the Attorney-General and police prosecutors at that time did not proceed with criminal prosecution. He stressed that continuous media pressure is vital for progress in these issues. While celebrating Chairman Wontumi's conviction, Dr. Ashigbey insisted that this judgment should not mark the end of Ghana's campaign against illegal mining. He questioned the status of investigations involving other politically exposed persons allegedly implicated in 'galamsey'.
He urged authorities to pursue all outstanding cases without fear or favour, referencing previous allegations against Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), traditional authorities, and Members of Parliament. Accountability must extend to every individual involved, regardless of their political affiliation or social standing. Dr. Ashigbey concluded that Ghana will only succeed in eradicating illegal mining if all perpetrators face justice.