Samuel Atta Akyea, lead counsel for Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, known as Chairman Wontumi, has criticised the perceived "indecent haste" in prosecuting politically exposed persons. He argues that the judicial system appears to prioritise political criminal cases over other legal matters. This statement comes after his client, Chairman Wontumi, received a 20-year prison sentence for illegal mining activities.
Mr. Atta Akyea, speaking on JoyNews' Newsfile on Saturday, July 25, questioned the speed of his client's illegal mining case. He contended that its handling differed significantly from ordinary criminal and civil cases. The lawyer suggested that this approach creates an impression of deliberate fast-tracking for politically significant criminal cases.
This criticism highlights a broader concern about the fairness and consistency of Ghana's justice delivery system. The perception of differential treatment for political cases could undermine public trust in judicial impartiality. It raises questions about resource allocation and judicial focus within the legal framework.
"There seems to be an indecent haste to prosecute what I call political cases," Mr. Atta Akyea stated. He noted that judges typically have considerable discretion in scheduling cases, often allowing adjournments for weeks or months. He maintained that this was not the experience in Chairman Wontumi's trial, suggesting a distinct process for such high-profile matters.
Mr. Atta Akyea also questioned the judicial commitment to civil litigation, particularly land disputes. He asked whether judges apply the same energy to these cases as they do to high-profile criminal prosecutions involving politicians. He cited his experience where civil matters often involve extended hearings and lengthy adjournments, unlike the expedited political cases.
The former Abuakwa South MP argued that this approach creates the impression of an "ambulance trial" for political cases. He questioned why the same urgency is not extended to other criminal matters before the courts. This disparity, he suggested, could lead to an imbalance in justice delivery across different case types.
Mr. Atta Akyea's comments follow the Accra High Court's sentencing of Chairman Wontumi to 20 years' imprisonment. The sentence was for illegal mining activities on the Samreboi concession in the Western Region. Justice Audrey Kocuvie-Tay delivered the judgment on Monday, July 20, 2026, concluding a closely watched prosecution.
The court also imposed a fine of 10,000 penalty units, equivalent to GHS 120,000. Failure to pay this fine would result in an additional three years' imprisonment. This significant penalty underscores the seriousness of the charges and the judicial response to illegal mining.
The implications of Mr. Atta Akyea's statements are significant for Ghana's legal landscape. They could spark a debate on judicial reforms and the equitable application of justice. Decision-makers and legal observers will closely watch how the judiciary addresses these concerns regarding case prioritisation and perceived political influence.
The public perception of justice is crucial for maintaining rule of law and democratic principles. Any suggestion of a two-tiered justice system, one for politicians and another for ordinary citizens, can erode confidence. This situation highlights the ongoing challenges in ensuring judicial independence and fairness in Ghana.