Bernard Antwi Boasiako, known as Chairman Wontumi, has started plea negotiations with the Attorney General’s office. This involves a GHS 30 million fraud case linked to the Ghana Export-Import Bank (Exim Bank).
Lawyers for Mr. Boasiako and two other accused people have formally written to the Attorney General. They seek plea negotiations for charges including defrauding by false pretenses, money laundering, and intentionally causing financial loss to a public body. This action follows Mr. Boasiako's arrest in May 2025 by the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO).
This case fits into Ghana's broader efforts to combat financial crime and recover state funds. Such high-profile cases involving political figures like Mr. Boasiako, who serves as the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party, often draw significant public attention. They highlight the ongoing challenges in ensuring accountability and transparency in public finance. Data shows that financial losses to the state continue to be a concern, making the recovery of such large sums crucial for Ghana's economic stability.
A plea bargain, under Section 162C of the Criminal and Other Offences (Procedure) (Amendment) Act, 2022 (Act 1079), allows an accused person to plead guilty to lesser charges. This can result in a reduced sentence, provided the Attorney General approves the agreement. The Attorney General will assess factors such as the strength of evidence, potential recovery of state funds, and the public interest.
The Attorney General’s office has not yet confirmed if these negotiations will proceed. If successful, a plea deal could streamline the judicial process and potentially lead to the recovery of some of the GHS 30 million. This decision will be closely watched by citizens and financial markets. It will reflect the government's commitment to tackling corruption and protecting public resources. The outcome could also set a precedent for future cases involving significant financial irregularities.
Prosecutors accuse Mr. Boasiako of using forged documents to obtain a GHS 30 million facility from Exim Bank. This facility was intended to finance equipment for his mining company, Akonta Mining Ltd. He faces four counts, including money laundering and causing financial loss to the state. He pleaded not guilty to all charges and received GHS 50 million bail with two sureties. The case is currently before the Accra High Court, awaiting further developments.