Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has described the detention of Ashanti Regional Chairman Bernard Antwi Bosiako popularly known as Chairman Wontumi by EOCO officials as a breach of constitutional rights.
The 2024 presidential candidate for the New Patriotic Party explained that, despite Wontumi’s arrest, no charges have been filed against him; however, state authorities have complicated efforts to ascertain his precise location of detention.
He further encouraged EOCO and other relevant state agencies to act within the confines of the laws of our land, noting that any deviation could jeopardize the trust Ghanaians have in the justice system and our democracy.
Bawumia’s post on Facebook read:
I am deeply concerned about the arrest and continued detention of the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Mr. Bernard Antwi-Boasiako (Wontumi), particularly as the charges remain vague, and his whereabouts remain unknown.
In a democratic environment as ours, no individual is above the law. Equally, no Ghanaian—regardless of political affiliation or status—should ever be denied their constitutional rights. Justice and due process are not optional; they are the foundation of our democracy.
I have been in constant touch with Mr. Wontumi’s legal team since this morning to ensure that his rights are protected and that due process is followed. I commend them for their professionalism and vigilance.
I also urge the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) and all relevant state institutions to act strictly within the bounds of the law and to respect the rights of Mr. Wontumi as guaranteed by our Constitution. Any deviation from these principles risks undermining public trust in our justice system and weakening the democratic values we have worked hard to build.
Ghana must always remain a nation governed by law—not by arbitrary power. Our Republic is strongest when our institutions are both firm and fair.
