Wontumi Conviction Based on Assumptions, Not Proof Beyond Re

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has expressed its disagreement with the conviction of its Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, who was sentenced to 20 years' imprisonment over illegal mining activities on the Samreboi concession in the Western Region.

The NPP's General Secretary, Justin Frimpong Kodua, addressed a press conference in Accra on Monday, July 20, where he stated that the party disagrees with the judgment of the Accra High Court and believes the conviction cannot stand on appeal.

The central issue in the case was whether Chairman Wontumi lawfully assigned or transferred his mineral rights, which the NPP argues was never established through evidence.

According to the NPP, the prosecution failed to produce any evidence showing that Wontumi had assigned his mineral rights, instead relying on assumptions and inferences that could not amount to proof beyond reasonable doubt.

The NPP has indicated that it will pursue all available legal avenues to challenge the court's decision, while maintaining that Chairman Wontumi deserves a fair hearing through the appellate process.

The party's stance comes after the Accra High Court sentenced Bernard Antwi-Boasiako to 20 years' imprisonment on July 20.

The NPP has stated that it firmly believes the conviction is a travesty of justice and has to be overturned on appeal.

Chairman Wontumi's lawyer will likely appeal the conviction, which will be a significant development in the case.

The case has sparked a lot of interest and debate, with many people following the developments closely.

The NPP's General Secretary, Justin Frimpong Kodua, has emphasized that the party is committed to ensuring that Chairman Wontumi receives a fair hearing through the appellate process.

The party's stance on the matter has been clear, and it remains to be seen how the case will unfold in the coming weeks and months.

The Accra High Court's decision has significant implications for the mining industry, and the NPP's stance on the matter reflects the party's commitment to upholding the rule of law.

Source: JOY