First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Bernard Ahiafor
The First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Bernard Ahiafor, has advised the Minority caucus to seek legal redress in court if they are dissatisfied with the GH₵50 million bail condition imposed on Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
Speaking in Parliament on Thursday, May 29, 2025, Ahiafor stated that the legislature lacks the constitutional authority to intervene in matters under the jurisdiction of the judiciary or security institutions.
“This is a matter that can adequately be addressed by the judiciary. If a security agency imposes a bail condition that you feel is harsh, I do not think Parliament will have the authority to call for a review of that particular decision,” he said.
He added that if someone is detained beyond the constitutionally permitted period, the law provides a clear path for legal recourse through the High Court.
The Deputy Speaker’s remarks followed concerns raised by Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, who described the GH₵50 million bail and the demand for property justification as excessive and unfair, given that Wontumi is not on trial and has cooperated with investigations.
Afenyo-Markin noted that Wontumi, who has been in the custody of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) for 48 hours, is unwell and has been transferred to a small clinic at the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB).
“EOCO does not have a health facility, so they have transferred him to the NIB health facility. Is that clinic able to give him the treatment he needs?” he questioned, arguing that bail should not be used to punish political opponents.
Wontumi was arrested earlier this week and granted bail by EOCO, but his failure to meet the bail conditions has prolonged his detention. The bail terms have sparked protests from NPP MPs and supporters, who accuse the government of weaponising state institutions.
Meanwhile, the Deputy Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Justice Srem Sai, has disclosed that Wontumi is under investigation for alleged serious criminal offences, including fraud, causing financial loss to the state, and money laundering.
The investigation also includes a second strand linked to an international organised crime scheme, with EOCO collaborating with international law enforcement partners.
