Accra, June 16, GNA – Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Wontumi, a businessman and Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has appointed Mr Samuel Atta Akyea as his new lead counsel in the ongoing Samreboi illegal mining case.
“This decision has been taken after careful consultation and in the exercise of my constitutional right to legal representation by counsel of my own choosing,” Boasiako said in a statement issued on Monday.
“It is intended to ensure that my defence is presented fully, effectively and in accordance with the law.”
Boasiako expressed appreciation to his former legal team for their service and commitment throughout the proceedings.
“My decision should not be construed as a reflection on their competence or dedication, but rather as an exercise of my legal right to determine the composition of my defence team,” he stated.
Boasiako noted that the charges before the court were serious and reaffirmed his commitment to defending himself through the due process of law.
“As with every accused person, I am entitled to the presumption of innocence until proven guilty by a competent court of law, and the burden rests on the prosecution to establish every element of the offences charged beyond reasonable doubt,” he said.
Boasiako stated that his newly appointed counsel would take the necessary lawful steps to assume responsibility for his defence, review the record of proceedings, and make all submissions and applications required to safeguard his constitutional right to a fair hearing.
He expressed confidence that the judicial process would be guided by the Constitution, the laws of Ghana, and the principles of justice and fairness.
“I, therefore, respectfully request that all parties and the public allow the legal process to proceed without speculation or prejudice while my defence is conducted in accordance with the law,” Boasiako said.
The statement follows an application by Mr Andy Appiah-Kubi, his former lead counsel, seeking leave to withdraw from the case.
Dr Justice Srem-Sai, the Deputy Attorney-General, subsequently filed a preliminary objection to the application.
The court dismissed the application, ruling that it was incompetent and unknown to criminal procedure.
It, however, extended the deadline for filing written addresses from June 17 to June 24, 2026.
Judgment is expected to be delivered on July 3, 2026.
GNA
Edited by Agnes Boye-Doe
Reporter: Joyce Danso