Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has appointed former Minister for Works and Housing, Samuel Atta Akyea, as his new Lead Defence Counsel in the ongoing Samreboi illegal mining case.
In a statement issued on Monday, June 15, 2026, Chairman Wontumi confirmed the appointment, noting that the decision was made after careful consultation and in exercise of his constitutional right to legal representation by counsel of his choice.
“I, Bernard Antwi Boasiako (Chairman Wontumi), wish to respectfully inform the Court, the parties, and the general public that I have decided to appoint Hon. Lawyer Samuel Atta Akyea as my new Lead Defence Counsel in the ongoing criminal proceedings against me,” the statement read.
The NPP chairman expressed appreciation to his previous legal team, led by Lawyer Andy Appiah Kubi, for their services and commitment. He clarified that the change should not be seen as a reflection on their competence or dedication.
“This decision has been taken after careful consultation… It is intended to ensure that my defence is presented fully, effectively, and in accordance with the law,” Wontumi added.
Lawyer Andy Appiah Kubi had filed a motion to withdraw as counsel for Wontumi in the high-profile case. The Accra High Court on Monday dismissed the application on grounds of jurisdiction noting that he needed no permission from the court.
Appiah Kubi subsequently announced his decision to file a notice of withdrawal as counsel for Wontumi.
The Samreboi case involves allegations of illegal mining activities on a concession linked to Chairman Wontumi and his company, Akonta Mining Limited.
In his statement, Wontumi reaffirmed his commitment to defending himself through due process.
“The charges before the Court are serious, and I remain firmly committed to defending myself… As with every accused person, I am entitled to the presumption of innocence until proven guilty,” he emphasised.
He noted that his new counsel will review the record of proceedings and take all necessary steps to protect his right to a fair hearing. Wontumi urged all parties and the public to allow the legal process to continue without speculation or prejudice.
The Samraboi case is a criminal trial before the High Court involving the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, alongside Akonta Mining Company Limited and another accused person, Kwame Antwi.
The accused persons are facing charges relating to alleged illegal mining activities at Samraboi in the Western Region. The prosecution’s case centres on claims that mining operations were conducted on a concession without the required authorisation under Ghana’s Minerals and Mining laws.
The state alleges that the activities in question were carried out unlawfully and resulted in breaches of regulatory procedures governing mineral extraction. The prosecution called witnesses during the trial, including individuals who testified on mining operations and investigators from state security agencies.
Following the close of the prosecution’s case, the defence filed a submission of no case to answer, arguing that the evidence presented is insufficient to sustain the charges.
However the submission was dismissed with the accused ordered to open their defense. The court has fixed July 3, 2026, to deliver its final judgment.