John Peter Amewu, former Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, has described the 20-year prison sentence given to Bernard Antwi-Boasiako as "severe" and "shocking". Mr. Antwi-Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi, is the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP). Mr. Amewu stated that the sentence raises legitimate questions about proportionality, fairness, and the administration of justice in Ghana.
Chairman Wontumi received his conviction on six counts under Section 99 of the Minerals and Mining (Amendment) Act, 2019. The Accra High Court found him guilty of unlawfully assigning mineral rights without ministerial approval. He also facilitated illegal mining in a protected forest reserve through Akonta Mining Limited. Mr. Antwi-Boasiako is currently serving his 20-year sentence at the Nsawam Medium Security Prison.
This case fits into Ghana's ongoing struggle against illegal mining, or 'galamsey', which has severely damaged the environment and water bodies. The government has intensified efforts to curb these activities, leading to several high-profile arrests and convictions. However, the severity of Wontumi's sentence, a prominent political figure, has ignited a debate about the application of justice. This debate touches on whether the legal system is consistently fair to all individuals, regardless of their political standing.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, July 22, Mr. Amewu expressed solidarity with the convicted politician. He clarified that his position does not oppose the rule of law or the independence of the judiciary. Mr. Amewu stated, "I have received with deep shock and profound concern the news of the conviction and custodial sentence imposed on Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako." He emphasized his respect for the rule of law and constitutional processes as a Ghanaian citizen and former Minister.
The NPP has indicated its intention to pursue all available legal avenues to challenge the conviction and sentence. This move suggests a prolonged legal battle, which will keep the issue of judicial fairness in the public eye. The outcome of the appeal will be closely watched by political observers and environmental activists alike. It could set a precedent for future cases involving illegal mining and political figures.
Mr. Amewu, a former NPP Volta Regional Chairman, highlighted his close working relationship with Chairman Wontumi. He recalled their collaboration during the party's rebuilding efforts after its defeat in the 2008 general election. He stated, "Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako is not just a political figure to me. He is a colleague and a person I have worked closely with in the service of the New Patriotic Party."
While acknowledging the devastating impact of illegal mining, Mr. Amewu maintained that the fight against galamsey must adhere to fairness and due process. He argued, "The fight against illegal mining must be firm, lawful, and non-partisan." He added that the fight must also preserve justice, proportionality, due process, and public confidence in the legal system. This statement underscores the delicate balance between environmental protection and upholding legal principles.
The former Lands Minister welcomed the decision by Chairman Wontumi's legal team and the NPP to challenge the conviction through the appellate courts. He noted that appeal courts exist to review questions of law, proportionality, sentencing discretion, and possible errors in principle. Mr. Amewu's solidarity, he explained, is not a rejection of the rule of law but a call for it to operate fully, fairly, transparently, and proportionately. This legal challenge will test the robustness of Ghana's judicial review mechanisms.
Mr. Amewu urged party supporters to remain calm and allow the legal process to unfold. He extended his support to Chairman Wontumi, his family, and the Ashanti Regional leadership of the NPP. He also called on all Ghanaians to reflect on the country's justice system. The case's implications extend beyond the individual, potentially influencing public perception of justice and governance in Ghana.