Kumasi, Ghana — Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, known politically as Chairman Wontumi and serving as the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party, has recounted a traumatic near-death experience during his detention by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO).
Arrested on May 27, 2025, following an invitation from the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) for questioning over allegations including fraud, money laundering, and causing financial loss to the state, Chairman Wontumi remained in custody for several days due to inability to meet the high bail requirement (GH₵50 million with two sureties) .
“I was kept in a very small and tight room… I nearly died while there,” Wontumi said. “As a human being, you can see if you are about to die… I realised I was dying after I started seeing my dead relatives”.
He described the confinement space as scarcely wide enough to turn, and the psychological distress as overwhelming. Drawing parallels to Jesus Christ’s agony on the cross, Wontumi shared that the ordeal compelled him to cry out, urging, “People of Ghana, arise!”.
⏳ Timeline of Events
May 27, 2025
Custody begins after CID interrogation; detention continues due to unfulfilled bail terms.
Late May to Early June 2025
Wontumi’s legal team finalizes bail documents, aided by NPP figures including Dr. Bryan Acheampong.
June 2, 2025
Chairman Wontumi is finally released after meeting the bail conditions and resolving a brief legal impasse.
⚖️ Political Backdrop & Reactions
Chairman Wontumi has since claimed that his detention reflects broader political persecution of NPP leaders by the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC). Former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and other NPP officials argue that EOCO and state instruments are being misused to intimidate opposition figures.
Party supporters and regional party directors vocally condemned his treatment, with promises to stand by him until his release was secured.
Analysis & Implications
Health & Human Rights: Wontumi’s description raises questions over detainee treatment and access to humane conditions within state custody. Political Strategy: The incident has become a rallying point for NPP, especially ahead of internal primaries and the 2028 general election. Justice & Fairness: Human rights advocates have called for independent investigation into EOCO’s handling of the case, emphasising transparency and detainee welfare.
What’s Next
As investigations continue, Wontumi has pledged to stay engaged with party affairs and to seek justice both politically and legally. The incident remains a potent symbol for debates over political freedoms, detainment conditions, and accountability in Ghanaian governance.
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