Appiah-Kubi Withdraws as Wontumi’s Lawyer in Samreboi Mining Case

Andy Appiah-Kubi, the lawyer representing Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has announced his withdrawal from one of his client’s high-profile criminal cases. The development was disclosed by Appiah-Kubi on Asempa FM’s Ekosiisen on Thursday, June 11.

Appiah-Kubi confirmed that he had informed both his client and the court of his decision to step aside from the case pending before the High Court in Accra, which is linked to alleged illegal mining activities in Samreboi.

Chairman Wontumi currently faces three separate criminal cases: two related to illegal mining operations and one concerning allegations of defrauding the state-owned Ghana Export-Import Bank (GEXIM).

Speaking on the matter, Appiah-Kubi raised concerns about aspects of the judicial process, suggesting that external factors might be affecting the case. He also highlighted the court’s insistence on his personal attendance despite prior notifications of scheduling conflicts due to multiple court commitments, raising questions about fairness and professional accommodation in the proceedings.

While he did not provide detailed specifics of his concerns, Appiah-Kubi’s remarks indicate that the issue could attract attention from the Ghana Bar Association (GBA) if a formal petition is filed.

The withdrawal comes at a critical stage for Chairman Wontumi, whose legal challenges have drawn significant public interest due to his political prominence and the serious nature of the allegations. The Samreboi case, in particular, has been under intense scrutiny because of the environmental and economic implications of illegal mining in the region.

Allegations of judicial impropriety are serious and require thorough examination through established legal and professional channels. The judiciary has consistently asserted its independence, while the GBA emphasizes adherence to the highest standards of professional conduct by both lawyers and judges.

Meanwhile, High Court proceedings involving Chairman Wontumi are expected to continue as prosecutors pursue the charges against him.

Story by Efua Nessa