Court to rule on whether Wontumi must open defence in illegal mining case on March 10

The High Court is set to determine on March 10, 2026, whether Bernard Antwi Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi, must open his defence in an illegal mining trial, following his submission of a no-case application challenging the prosecution’s evidence.

Represented by his lawyer, Andy Appiah-Kubi, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party contends that the state has failed to establish a prima facie case on all six counts brought against him and his company, Akonta Mining Company Ltd.

The Attorney-General’s office alleges that the company allowed Henry Okum and Michael Gyedu Ayisi to conduct mining activities on its concession without ministerial approval, facilitating unlicensed operations.

However, in court, Ayisi testified that he had never met or communicated with Chairman Wontumi, did not hold a mining licence, never applied for one, and had no written agreement or financial arrangement with the accused.

Appiah-Kubi argues that even if permission had been granted, it would not constitute an assignment of mineral rights, which requires a legal transfer of proprietary interest. He further contends that the prosecution has presented no evidence of deliberate facilitation or proof that his clients were aware the miners lacked licences.

The prosecution, led by Deputy Attorney-General Justice Srem-Sai, is yet to respond. Under Section 173 of the Criminal and Other Offences (Procedure) Act, 1960 (Act 30), the court may discharge the accused if it finds no case has been established; otherwise, Wontumi and his company will be required to open their defence.