Bernard Antwi Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi, will file his nomination for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) National Chairman position on August 27, 2026. This decision proceeds despite his current 20-year prison sentence for illegal mining offenses. His campaign team plans to submit the required forms at the NPP's national headquarters in Accra.
An Accra High Court convicted Mr. Boasiako on charges related to illegal mining at the Samreboi concession in the Western Region. The court found him guilty of assigning mineral rights without ministerial approval. He also facilitated unlicensed mining operations, leading to his 20-year prison term. Additionally, the court imposed a fine of GHS 120,000. His legal team has since sought bail pending an appeal against his conviction and sentence.
This development introduces significant questions regarding political eligibility and party governance within Ghana's democratic framework. The NPP, as a major political party, faces scrutiny over its internal processes. The situation highlights the intersection of legal judgments and political aspirations. It also brings into focus the party's adherence to its own constitutional provisions and national laws. The broader public will observe how the party navigates this complex issue, especially concerning candidates with criminal convictions.
Ewuradwoa Coleman, Communications Director for Wontumi's campaign team, confirmed the planned nomination filing. She defended the decision, stating, "We believe that Chairman Wontumi should be able to have the opportunity to go through the party's established processes." Ms. Coleman added that any legal or constitutional impediments should be determined by the appropriate party authority. This stance suggests a belief that political ambition should not be automatically curtailed by incarceration.
The move has sparked constitutional debate, with legal opinions citing Articles 55(8) and 94(2)(c)(ii) of the 1992 Constitution. These articles bar individuals convicted of high crimes or sentenced to over 10 years from contesting parliamentary seats. Since eligibility for party executive positions often links to parliamentary eligibility, these provisions could render Mr. Boasiako ineligible. The NPP's National Elections Committee Chairman, Fredrick Opare-Ansah, stated the secretariat cannot prevent anyone from obtaining forms. He clarified that the Vetting Committee determines candidate eligibility. This committee will make the final decision on Mr. Boasiako's candidacy.
Mr. Boasiako is not the only candidate seeking the National Chairman position. Five aspirants have picked forms for the role, indicating a competitive race. Other notable contenders include former National Chairman Paul Awentami Afoko and former General Secretary John Boadu. Former Energy Minister Boakye Agyarko and Sammy Crabbe are also in the running. The filing of completed nomination forms will close on Saturday, August 29, 2026. The NPP extended this deadline by two days. Vetting of aspirants is scheduled from August 31 to September 3, 2026. The national delegates' election is set for October 3, 2026. This timeline provides a clear path for the party to address the eligibility concerns. The outcome will set a precedent for future political contests involving candidates with legal issues. The party's decision will reflect its commitment to constitutional principles and internal democratic processes. It will also influence public perception of the NPP's integrity and governance standards. The financial implications of illegal mining, such as the GHS 120,000 fine, underscore the economic impact of such crimes. This situation highlights the importance of robust legal frameworks in safeguarding national resources and ensuring accountability. The party's handling of this high-profile case will be closely watched by political analysts and the general public alike.