Maurice Ampaw reacts to Wontumi's Exim Bank case

Private legal practitioner, Maurice Ampaw, has shared his views on the ongoing court case involving the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, who is facing multiple charges, including allegedly facilitating unlicensed mining operations within the Samreboi concession without ministerial approval.

Speaking during a discussion on Movement TV, shared on social media and sighted by GhanaWeb on June 16, 2026, Maurice Ampaw criticised some public reactions regarding the case.

He further commented on the implications of Chairman Wontumi’s reported plea bargain application.

Petition CJ now – Maurice Ampaw reacts to judge's warning to Wontumi lawyers

According to him, persons demanding that Chairman Wontumi be jailed should focus on the legal process rather than public commentary.

He added that the Ashanti Regional Chairman should not be distracted by reactions on social media.

“He didn’t go and rob anyone; they can go to hell. If I were Chairman Wontumi, I would contest the charges in court and allow the judge to determine the matter within the legal process. Chairman should relax because, in the end, his critics may be disappointed,” he said.

Maurice Ampaw also questioned what practical benefit the public would derive if Chairman Wontumi were imprisoned.

He argued that the Attorney General should prioritise recovering any money owed to the state rather than focusing solely on imprisonment.

“If Chairman Wontumi is jailed, would that bring food to your table? Would it change your destiny? What benefit would it bring to the country?

“If the state believes there are funds to recover, then attention should also be placed on ensuring repayment. Otherwise, many people who owe the state would equally have to face legal consequences,” he added.

The private legal practitioner further stated that businessman Ibrahim Mahama could also face legal action in the future, depending on changes in government and any applicable legal findings.

“If the NPP returns to power, everyone found to owe the state should also face the law, including Ibrahim Mahama. Criminal offences do not expire,” he added.

'I have won over 300 cases in Ghana' - Lawyer Maurice Ampaw

Meanwhile, the trial involving Chairman Wontumi and Akonta Mining Limited over alleged illegal mining activities in Samreboi is at the concluding stage.

The Accra High Court has fixed July 3, 2026, to deliver its final judgment after both the prosecution and defence closed their cases and filed final arguments.

Chairman Wontumi is facing multiple charges, including allegations of facilitating unlicensed mining operations and transferring mineral rights without ministerial approval within the Samreboi concession in the Western Region.

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