Chairman Wontumi case a victory for Ghana - Martin Kpebu

Private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu has described the 20-year prison sentence handed to Ashanti Regional New Patriotic Party (NPP) Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, as "a victory for Ghana", insisting that the conviction was based on evidence and not merely a confession.

Speaking on Ekosiisen on Asempa FM on July 20, 2026, Kpebu explained that assigning mineral rights without the required approval constitutes an offence under Ghana's mining laws.

"Giving out the land without written approval is also an offence," he said.

Kpebu rejected suggestions that the court relied solely on a confession to convict Wontumi, stressing that the judgment was supported by evidence presented during the trial.

"The court did not rely solely on confession. The sentence was arrived at through cross-examination," he stated.

Social media reacts after Chairman Wontumi is jailed 20 years

He further noted that mining operators are required to follow laid-down procedures before undertaking land reclamation, including working with the Minerals Commission.

"There are rules on reclamation before it is done; it is done with the Minerals Commission," Kpebu explained.

He expressed hope that more individuals involved in illegal mining activities would be prosecuted and convicted.

"As for the kingpins, we are expecting more to be convicted. This case is a victory for Ghana," he added.

Kpebu's comments come after Wontumi was sentenced to 20 years' imprisonment with hard labour following his conviction in an illegal mining case involving Akonta Mining Company Limited.

MRA/MA

BREAKING: Chairman Wontumi jailed 20 years in prison