Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party, Bernard Antwi Boasiako
The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has narrated his ordeal during his time in the custody of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO).
According to the outspoken politician, he nearly lost his life due to the harsh conditions he endured while in detention.
Speaking at a political event in the Adansi Asokwa Constituency on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, Chairman Wontumi described the experience as traumatic, recounting the physical and psychological toll it had on him.
“When EOCO arrested Chairman Wontumi, where I was kept, if you count your legs three times, that was the width of the place.
“If you look at where I slept, I nearly died. And when you are dying, you will know that you are dying because I saw I was dying. I saw dead relatives all over, and I realised I was dying.
“So, I called on God, and that is why I also called on Ghanaians to rise and defend me,” he told the crowd.
Chairman Wontumi released by EOCO
Chairman Wontumi also used the platform to call on party members to rally behind NPP flagbearer hopeful, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, ahead of the party’s presidential primaries in January 2026.
The NPP chairman was arrested on May 27, 2025, following an invitation by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) for questioning over alleged serious criminal offences, including fraud, causing financial loss to the state and money laundering.
He was later released on a ₵10 million bail with two sureties.
His arrest sparked massive support from NPP members, who thronged the EOCO premises at the time to demonstrate solidarity.
AM/SEA
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