Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has accused security forces of intimidation and unlawful conduct following a search conducted at his residence by a combined team of police and National Security operatives.
Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosiisen show on Friday, May 23, Mr Antwi Boasiako said the incident began with a struggle lasting approximately 30 minutes, during which five vehicles arrived at his home.
He claims the security personnel attempted to carry out their operation without a warrant, prompting him to confront them. “So, why this intimidation?” he questioned.
He expressed bewilderment at what he describes as unfair treatment.
“During the NPP administration, I was never chairman of any board, never CEO of any institution, and not a Vice President. What exactly have I done to deserve such treatment? I am only a regional chairman who campaigned for my party. Unfortunately, we didn’t win — so what more?”
According to Mr Antwi Boasiako, after making distress calls to colleagues and authorities, the security personnel left but soon returned with a force of about one hundred military and police officers.
Armed with rifles, hammers, pickaxes, and canes, they allegedly attempted to break down his door.
The regional chairman voiced deep concern over the implications of such actions for the country’s democracy.
“If care is not taken, I fear this nation could be heading towards a military coup,” he warned.
“If the President presides over such lawlessness while there are institutions to summon accused persons properly, then it is a threat to democracy. The more power you hold, the more you must understand its limits. I am genuinely afraid of the direction this country is heading,” he continued.
Mr Antwi Boasiako also revealed that a helicopter had been stationed on the tarmac, purportedly to fly him to Tamale immediately following his arrest.
He called on President Mahama to bring his officials to order, alleging that all his bank accounts, including those linked to Akonta Mining and other companies he owns, have been frozen.
Addressing allegations surrounding his business interests, he stated he has not visited his mining concession in seven years, having instead entrusted it to others to cultivate coconut trees.
To date, approximately 18,000 coconut trees have been planted, with plans to plant an additional 32,000, bringing the total close to 50,000. Furthermore, he insisted he has never entered the Samreboi forestry concession.
Mr Antwi Boasiako disclosed that he has initiated legal proceedings against the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, asserting that he possesses legitimate documentation for his concessions — comparable to those held by major firms such as AngloGold and Newmont — yet remains barred from operating them.
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