A senior New Patriotic Party (NPP) figure popularly known as Chairman Buga has reportedly questioned the 20-year prison sentence handed to former Ashanti Regional Chairman Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.
In remarks circulating online, Buga is heard questioning the length of Wontumi’s sentence and raising concerns about the effect of a prolonged prison term on his family and children.
The comment comes amid continued political and public debate over Wontumi’s conviction and imprisonment.
Wontumi’s 20-year sentence
On July 20, 2026, an Accra High Court sentenced Wontumi to 20 years’ imprisonment with hard labour after finding him guilty of offences connected to illegal mining operations on the Samreboi concession in the Western Region. The court imposed two 20-year custodial sentences, but ordered them to run concurrently, meaning the effective sentence is 20 years.
The court also imposed fines on Wontumi and Akonta Mining Company Limited.
The prosecution’s case centred on allegations that mineral rights connected to the concession were assigned without the required ministerial approval and that Wontumi deliberately facilitated unlicensed mining operations.
NPP challenges the conviction
The NPP has rejected the judgment and announced plans to challenge the conviction.
The party’s General Secretary, Justice Frimpong Koduah, described the judgment as fundamentally flawed and said the party would pursue an appeal.
Wontumi’s legal team has subsequently filed an application seeking bail pending the appeal. However, the application was adjourned to October 15, 2026, after the judge scheduled to hear it became indisposed.
Wontumi remains in custody at Nsawam Medium Security Prison while the legal process continues.
Debate over the sentence
The case has generated strong reactions across Ghana, with supporters and political actors expressing differing views about the conviction and punishment.
Some critics of the sentence have questioned whether 20 years is proportionate, while others have argued that serious sanctions are necessary to deter illegal mining and protect Ghana’s forests, water bodies and mineral resources.
Buga’s reported comments add another dimension to the debate, focusing not only on the legal consequences but also on the personal and family impact of a lengthy prison sentence.
The case remains subject to the appellate process, meaning the final legal outcome could still change.
