'My greatest fear was going to prison, but now I’m here' — Wontumi reflects on life behind bars

Former Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has spoken about how imprisonment has changed his outlook on life, admitting that going to prison was once his greatest fear.

Broadcast journalist Kwame Tanko, also known as KT, shared the account on his programme on Monday, October 26, 2026, following a visit to the politician at the Nsawam Medium Security Prison.

According to Mr Tanko, Chairman Wontumi reflected on his circumstances and urged those around him to accept difficult realities rather than allow anger, regret and frustration to overwhelm them.

“My greatest fear in this world is going to prison, but now I’m here,” Wontumi reportedly told Tanko.

The remark offers an insight into the politician’s reported adjustment to life behind bars following his conviction in the Samreboi illegal mining case.

Mr Tanko said Wontumi encouraged him and others close to him to accept what had happened and concentrate on moving forward instead of dwelling on the past.

“What will happen has happened,” Wontumi reportedly said, urging them to let go of anger and come to terms with the situation.

His reported advice centred on the need to confront reality, even when circumstances take an unexpected turn. The comments suggest that his imprisonment has forced him to face a situation he once regarded as his greatest fear.

Mr Tanko also indicated that the NPP politician remained in good spirits during the visit and appeared to be coping with the challenges of incarceration.

Meanwhile, Chairman Wontumi is facing a separate legal battle connected to the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve case, adding to his ongoing legal challenges.