Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has officially appointed former Abuakwa South MP and lawyer, Samuel Atta Akyea, as his new lead defence counsel in the criminal proceedings against him.
In a statement issued on Monday, Chairman Wontumi said the decision followed careful consultation and was made in the exercise of his constitutional right to legal representation.
“I wish to respectfully inform the Court, the parties, and the general public that I have decided to appoint Hon. Lawyer Samuel Atta Akyea as my new Lead Defence Counsel in the ongoing criminal proceedings against me,” he stated.
He explained that the move is aimed at strengthening and effectively presenting his defence in accordance with the law.
“This decision has been taken after careful consultation and in the exercise of my constitutional right to legal representation by counsel of my own choosing. It is intended to ensure that my defence is presented fully, effectively, and in accordance with the law,” the statement added.
Chairman Wontumi also expressed appreciation to his previous legal team for their service and commitment throughout the proceedings, stressing that his decision should not be interpreted as dissatisfaction with their work.
“I express my sincere appreciation to my previous legal team for their services and commitment throughout these proceedings. My decision should not be construed as a reflection on their competence or dedication but rather as an exercise of my legal right to determine the composition of my defence team,” he noted.
The announcement comes shortly after his former lead counsel, lawyer Andy Appiah-Kubi, sought to withdraw from the case. Although he filed an application to be discharged from representation, the High Court struck out the motion on Monday, June 15, 2026, effectively keeping him on record as counsel at that time.
Chairman Wontumi is facing ongoing criminal proceedings which have attracted significant public attention.
Reaffirming his position, he maintained his innocence and confidence in the judicial process.
“The charges before the Court are serious, and I remain firmly committed to defending myself through the due process of law,” he stated.
He further emphasised the constitutional presumption of innocence, adding that the burden of proof lies with the prosecution.
“As with every accused person, I am entitled to the presumption of innocence until proven guilty by a competent court of law, and the burden rests on the prosecution to establish every element of the offences charged beyond reasonable doubt,” he said.
According to the statement, Samuel Atta Akyea will now take immediate steps to assume full responsibility for the defence, review court proceedings, and file any necessary applications to safeguard his client’s rights.
Chairman Wontumi expressed confidence in the judiciary and urged the public to allow the legal process to proceed without speculation.
“I have full confidence that the judicial process will be guided by the Constitution, the laws of Ghana, and the principles of justice and fairness,” he stated.
He concluded by appealing for calm and restraint as the case continues before the courts.
Source: Wesleyannews.com
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