James Agbey of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has issued a strong warning to President John Mahama. He urged the President not to grant clemency to Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi. Agbey stated that such a pardon would provoke a significant backlash from the NDC’s grassroots membership.
This warning follows public appeals for presidential mercy for Wontumi. Dr. Palgrave Boakye-Danquah, Wontumi’s spokesperson, had asked President Mahama to forgive the embattled NPP chairman. These appeals relate to remarks Wontumi made against the President and his family during the 2024 election campaign.
Agbey dismissed these calls for clemency as premature. He argued that Wontumi has not served a sufficient portion of his sentence. He believes discussions about a presidential pardon are currently inappropriate. Agbey stressed that Wontumi should not receive special treatment due to his political status.
Agbey highlighted that the courts, not President Mahama, were responsible for Wontumi's incarceration. He maintained that anyone seeking presidential clemency must adhere to the same legal standards as other prisoners. This includes serving a required portion of their sentence before consideration.
The NDC operative further asserted that Wontumi is not a political prisoner. Instead, Agbey described him as a “common criminal found culpable by a court of competent jurisdiction.” He added that Wontumi does not deserve sympathy or clemency for his galamsey-related crimes.
Agbey’s warning underscores the deep-seated public concern over illegal mining, known as galamsey. Many communities continue to suffer severe environmental consequences from these activities. He insisted that those found guilty of such offenses must face the full consequences of the law. This stance reflects a broader public demand for accountability in environmental protection.
Agbey pointed out that over 120 individuals are currently serving prison sentences for galamsey-related offenses. He argued that Wontumi should not receive preferential treatment compared to these individuals. This highlights a principle of equal application of the law, regardless of political affiliation or influence.
He also referenced past administrations, noting that former Presidents John Agyekum Kufuor and Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo did not pardon several high-profile convicts despite appeals. Agbey urged President Mahama to follow this precedent. He advised against truncating the due process in the Wontumi case, emphasizing the importance of judicial independence.
The potential for a grassroots revolt within the NDC indicates the political sensitivity of this issue. Pardoning Wontumi could alienate a significant portion of the party's base. This could have implications for future political stability and public trust in the justice system. The decision will be closely watched by both political observers and the general public.