Wontumi Confronts Mahama in Shocking 20-Year-Old Clip

Chairman Wontumi was sentenced to 20 years in prison for illegal mining charges, a decision that has sparked a mixed reaction online.

The sentencing was announced on Monday, 20 July 2026, by Justice Audrey Kocuvie-Tay, who found Wontumi and Akonta Mining guilty of assigning mineral rights on the Samreboi concession without approval from the sector minister. A 10,000 penalty unit fine, equivalent to GH¢120,000, was also imposed, with a default sentence of three years if the fine is not paid. Akonta Mining Limited was fined separately.

Wontumi conviction based on assumptions, not proof beyond reasonable doubt – NPP

A video of Wontumi defending his mining operations has resurfaced online, in which he appears on his radio and television station addressing comments made by President Mahama about disbanding Akonta Mining. The video was shared on X by Agyapong Diary shortly after the sentencing was announced.

Wontumi's lawyers had asked the court to consider the minimum 15-year sentence, citing his cooperation with investigators throughout the trial. However, the court rejected this request. Reaction to the video was mixed, with some calling for Wontumi's release.

Enoch Afoakwa, part of Wontumi's legal team, described the 20-year sentence as "mind-boggling" and said the team would consult Wontumi, obtain the full court proceedings, and review the judgment before deciding whether to appeal. Ghana's legal system allows a dissatisfied party to escalate the case to the Court of Appeal and, if necessary, the Supreme Court.

Source: Yen Entertainment