“We pray that this court convicts Chairman Wontumi” – Deputy Attorney-General tells Judge

Andy Appiah Kubi, the lead counsel for NPP Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi-Boasiako (commonly known as Chairman Wontumi), has strongly criticized comments made by Deputy Attorney-General, Dr. Justice Srem-Sai, who urged the court to convict Wontumi and his company, Akonta Mining.

Dr. Srem-Sai’s remarks came after defense lawyers informed the court that they were unable to submit the names of their witnesses, despite a court order to do so. The court had earlier ruled that the prosecution had established a prima facie case against the accused, directing them to file their witness statements by April 14, 2026.

The Ashanti Regional Chairman and his company face six charges related to permitting unlicensed mining activities, allegedly allowing Henry Okum and Michael Gyedu Ayisi to mine on their concession without prior approval from the Lands Minister.

During Monday’s proceedings, defense lawyers informed the court of their decision to challenge the High Court’s order at the Court of Appeal, which resulted in their failure to comply with the deadline to file their defense. They also noted that a motion to stay proceedings had been filed at the Court of Appeal after the High Court had dismissed a similar motion. As a result, the defense requested an adjournment pending the outcome of their application.

However, Dr. Justice Srem-Sai opposed the defense’s motion, accusing them of intentionally delaying the trial. He urged the court to proceed with the case, stating, “Having refused to file a defense or call witnesses, there is only one path, which is to convict. We pray that this court convicts the accused persons.”

In response to the Deputy Attorney-General’s request, the presiding judge, Audrey Kocuvie-Tay, emphasized the importance of following due process and stated that the defense must comply with the court’s order. She then ordered that the defense file their statement by May 5, 2026.

Andy Appiah Kubi, representing Wontumi, condemned Dr. Srem-Sai’s remarks, calling them “unfortunate.” He expressed concern about the Deputy Attorney-General’s comments, especially given his dual role as the Minister for Justice. “It is unbecoming of an Attorney-General to be in such a hurry to secure a conviction in a criminal trial,” Appiah Kubi said. “He seems to forget that the justice system requires fairness and due process.”

Story by Efua Nessa

Source: Loco tv