Exim Bank fraud case: I agree that other persons must answer some questions — Akwatia MP

The Member of Parliament for Akwatia, Bernard Bediako Baidoo, has said other individuals may also have questions to answer in the ongoing Exim Bank fraud case involving New Patriotic Party (NPP) Ashanti Regional Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.

According to him, beyond the allegations against Chairman Wontumi, officials responsible for scrutinising documents submitted to the bank should also be subjected to scrutiny.

His comments come amid discussions over Chairman Wontumi's application for a plea bargain in a case in which he, Thomas Antwi-Boasiako, who is reported to be at large and Wontumi Farms Limited are facing charges of defrauding by false pretence, uttering a forged document, money laundering and intentionally causing financial loss to a public institution.

According to the charge sheet filed on May 15, 2026, the accused allegedly obtained GH¢14.3 million from Exim Bank in 2018 after applying for a facility of GH¢18.7 million on behalf of Wontumi Farms Limited for a large-scale farming project.

The prosecution alleges that no farming activities were undertaken, no machinery was purchased and no workers were employed.

It further alleges that a document presented as evidence of the purchase of farming equipment was forged.

Speaking on Accra-based JoyNews' Newsfile programme on Saturday, June 13, Mr Bediako Baidoo questioned aspects of the prosecution's case, particularly claims that a board resolution submitted in support of a loan application predated the incorporation of Wontumi Farms Limited.

While discussing the facts outlined by the prosecution, the Akwatia MP said some responsibility may also lie with individuals who processed and assessed the application at the bank.

"I agree partially with Dr Bomfeh when he says that persons must answer some questions, because these were submitted to the bank, who are supposed to have people who are meant to do some due diligence," he stated.

Meanwhile, the Attorney-General's Office informed the High Court in Accra in a filing dated June 11, 2026 that Chairman Wontumi had commenced steps toward a plea agreement after his lawyer, Andy Appiah-Kubi, submitted a request under Section 162C(3) of the Criminal and Other Offences (Procedure) Act, 1960 (Act 30).

Mr Bediako Baidoo, however, argued that if the allegations are as presented by the state, the prosecution must be given the opportunity to prove its case in court.