Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) known as Chairman Wontumi, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for illegal mining activities. The Accra High Court, presided over by Justice Audrey Kocuvie-Tay, also imposed a fine of 10,000 penalty units, equivalent to GHS 120,000. Failure to pay this fine will result in an additional three-year custodial sentence.
This conviction stems from illegal mining operations on the Samreboi concession in the Western Region. Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey, Convener of the Media Coalition Against Illegal Mining, described the judgment as a landmark moment. He insists this verdict should trigger a wider crackdown on politically exposed persons implicated in 'galamsey', the local term for illegal mining. The ruling represents a significant victory for anti-galamsey campaigners who have advocated for years.
The fight against illegal mining is a critical economic and environmental issue for Ghana. 'Galamsey' devastates farmlands, pollutes water bodies, and causes significant revenue losses for the state. This conviction signals a potential shift in the government's resolve to tackle the issue, especially concerning influential individuals. Previous efforts have often been criticized for failing to prosecute high-profile figures, leading to public skepticism about the effectiveness of anti-galamsey campaigns.
Dr. Ashigbey stated on JoyNews that the decision demonstrates that persistent advocacy and sustained public pressure can compel state institutions to act against influential individuals. He commended the current Attorney-General for prosecuting the matter to its conclusion. He also praised Justice Audrey Kocuvie-Tay for her courage in handling this high-profile case. The Samreboi case was one of several petitions submitted by the Media Coalition Against Illegal Mining to state authorities, which campaigners monitored from its inception.
This conviction sets a precedent for future prosecutions of individuals involved in illegal mining, regardless of their political standing. It could encourage more robust enforcement of environmental laws and increase public confidence in the justice system. Decision-makers and markets will be watching closely to see if this conviction leads to further actions against other politically connected individuals. The outcome could influence investor sentiment regarding Ghana's commitment to environmental protection and rule of law.
Dr. Ashigbey highlighted that the campaign against illegal mining remains incomplete if only one politically exposed person faces prosecution. He referenced President John Dramani Mahama's argument during the 2024 general election campaign. Mahama stated that the fight against 'galamsey' would achieve little unless influential financiers and political actors behind the practice were brought to justice. This sentiment underscores the public's demand for comprehensive accountability.
The Convener called for updates on investigations into other politically connected individuals allegedly involved in illegal mining. He argued that accountability should not be selective. Dr. Ashigbey questioned the status of cases involving Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives, chiefs, and even parliamentarians. These individuals have been publicly accused of complicity or incompetence in facilitating illegal mining activities. The public expects transparency and action on these fronts.
He recalled how the current Minister for Lands and Natural Resources convened an emergency press conference in 2025 after reviewing the coalition's petition. This action demonstrated a commitment to addressing the issue. Dr. Ashigbey also praised a 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. Despite confirmation by the former CEO of the Minerals Commission, Martin Ayisi, prosecution did not occur at that time, which was a source of disappointment for campaigners.
The 20-year prison sentence, while welcomed, is viewed by Dr. Ashigbey as a starting point. The broader implication is that the government must demonstrate a sustained commitment to prosecuting all individuals involved in illegal mining. This includes those with political influence. The conviction of Chairman Wontumi could mark a turning point in Ghana's long-standing battle against environmental degradation and resource exploitation.