The Ashanti NPP Chairman Faces Court: The Dramatic Case of Chairman Wontumi
In a courtroom drama that has captured national attention, Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi and the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party, stood before the High Court in Accra to answer to four serious criminal charges. The charges, defrauding by false pretence, forgery, money laundering, and intentionally causing a financial loss of over GH¢30 million to the Ghana Export-Import Bank (Exim Bank), were read out in a session presided over by Justice Halimah El-Alawa Abdul-Baasit. Chairman Wontumi, represented by his lawyer Andy Appiah-Kubi, entered a plea of not guilty. After an application by his lawyer, which was not opposed by Deputy Attorney-General Dr. Justice Srem-Sai, Wontumi was granted bail. Meanwhile, his alleged accomplice and Director of Wontumi Farms Limited, Thomas Antwi-Boasiako, remains at large, with authorities still seeking his whereabouts. The prosecution’s case paints an elaborate picture of deception. According to the charge sheet, Chairman Wontumi and Thomas Antwi-Boasiako are accused of using false pretences to obtain GH¢14.3 million from Exim Bank. They allegedly presented falsified documents, including a “Board Resolution Letter” with suspicious dates, and claimed to have secured 100,000 acres of land and employment for 38,000 people. Based on these representations, Exim Bank approved a mixed loan and grant facility of nearly GH¢19 million, ultimately disbursing over GH¢14 million to Wontumi Farms Limited by March 2018. The prosecution further alleges that in March 2018, Chairman Wontumi submitted a document labeled as a “Receipt” to secure an additional GH¢4 million from the bank, claiming it was for the purchase of agricultural machinery. However, state investigations revealed that the so-called receipt was in fact a doctored pro-forma invoice from KAS-SAMA Enterprise, originally issued only for a price inquiry. “No agricultural plant or machinery was bought. No person was employed to work on any farm. The accused persons did not own or secure the parcel of land they represented to the Bank as secured for the project,” prosecutors stated. Instead, large sums withdrawn from the company’s accounts were allegedly used for Wontumi’s personal investments and other business enterprises. As the case unfolds, the nation watches closely, awaiting the court’s verdict on one of the most high-profile financial crime cases in recent years. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Public Accounts Committee Probes Missing Vehicles and Documentation Gaps at Labour Ministry
The tale of two missing vehicles has cast a shadow over the Ministry of Labour and Employment, as the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) sounded the alarm over procurement lapses and interest charges linked to unsettled claims. The issue came to light during the PAC’s review of a GH¢223,127 payment claim, highlighted in the Auditor-General’s special audit report on government arrears totaling GH¢68.7 billion. According to the audit, the sum relates to the purchase of two Nissan Tiida saloon cars that, more than a decade after their reported procurement, cannot be located. Making matters worse, the key documents supporting this transaction have also vanished. When the Ministry’s Director of Finance, Mary Ninson, appeared before the committee on May 18, she admitted that records tied to the acquisition, believed to have taken place in 2011, were missing. Auditors, she explained, had been informed that the Ministry was unable to trace the documentation, leaving the status of the vehicles in limbo. Ninson also revealed that delays in settling certain obligations led to interest charges, even though partial payments had been made for some price adjustments. The Ministry of Finance, she added, had been notified about the situation. The documentation woes did not end there. Ninson disclosed that records relating to the procurement of two-horsepower air conditioners were also missing, and while auditors were kept in the loop, efforts to obtain clarification from relevant institutions yielded no official replies. The probe extended to the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission, where a building project estimated at GH¢5.1 million was scrutinized. Of this amount, GH¢4.3 million was accepted as certified completed work, but the remaining balance was disallowed by auditors as it related to unfinished construction, a position the Ministry accepted. When PAC members pressed for details on how 40 percent of payments had been confirmed and what records supported the process, Ninson said the issue only surfaced during the audit. Subsequent efforts to verify the transaction with Japan Motors and other institutions turned up only photocopied documents; no originals could be found. Ninson emphasized to the committee that original documents are essential for authenticating payment claims. Photocopies alone, she noted, cannot be relied upon for approval or settlement. She insisted that all outstanding claims must be backed by credible, verifiable records before any future payments can be processed. The PAC’s inquiry underscores the critical need for transparency and accountability in government procurement and record-keeping, as ministries and agencies work to restore public trust and financial discipline. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Hajia Charity Rahinatu Asoemah Empowers Bolgatanga Dressmakers with Sewing Machines and Cash Donation
At the 2026 graduation ceremony of the Bolgatanga Central Zone One branch of the Ghana National Tailors and Dressmakers Association (GNTDA), hope and opportunity took center stage. The guest of honor, Hajia Charity Rahinatu Asoemah, Former Upper East Regional Women’s Organizer of the NDC and Deputy Director General of Warehouse of NADMO, made a generous donation of 30 sewing machines and GH₵5,000 cash to the association. Hajia Charity explained that her donation was aimed at supporting the association’s mission to train more young people, particularly young women, in the craft of dressmaking. “As a daughter of this region, I understand the challenges many young ladies face in their daily lives. For some, even having three square meals a day is a struggle. That is why seeing all of you, young graduates, standing before me today is deeply meaningful. I know it has not been easy to get here, and for that, I say a big congratulations to every one of you”. She told the gathering. She commended GNTDA for its steadfast commitment to equipping the youth with valuable, employable skills and encouraged the association to further expand its training programs. Addressing the apprentices, Hajia Charity urged the youth, especially young women, to take their handiwork seriously, emphasizing the potential for vocational training to pave the way for a brighter future. “I want to admonish the youth of this region, especially the ladies, to take their handiwork seriously and become better people in the future,” she advised. Pledging her ongoing support, Hajia Charity promised to assist the association whenever the need arises. The ceremony was also marked by the graduation of 73 apprentices from the Bolgatanga Central Zone One branch. Leaders of the association took the opportunity to call on government authorities to prioritize support for local dressmakers, encouraging efforts to help new graduates establish their own businesses locally rather than seeking opportunities elsewhere. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Dr Jinapor Urges NDC Supporters to Be Patient as Government Works to Improve Livelihoods
During a spirited gathering in the Savannah Region, the Member of Parliament for Yapei Kusawgu and Minister for Energy, Dr John Abdulai Jinapor, addressed enthusiastic supporters of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) with a message of patience and unity. The occasion was NDC Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketiah’s thank-you tour on Thursday, May 14, where expectations for jobs and economic support ran high among party faithful. Dr Jinapor, aware of the community’s hopes, acknowledged the pressing demands for employment and business opportunities. “I will plead with you to be patient with the government. We are barely two years in office. We know you need jobs, we know you need businesses,” he assured the crowd. Highlighting the government’s commitment, Dr Jinapor shared recent initiatives aimed at supporting local farmers, including his personal funding for 2,000 bags of fertiliser and 2,000 bags of weedicides this year. “So please exercise patience for the party,” he urged, emphasizing that these measures are just the beginning of broader efforts to uplift livelihoods in the region. But Dr Jinapor’s appeal wasn’t just for patience; it was also for peace and party unity. He cautioned against resorting to violence or divisive actions that could jeopardize the NDC’s political fortunes. “If we are sharing while in office, it is just a matter of time, everybody will get some, but when we use violence and it lands the party in opposition, it will be our loss,” he warned, underscoring the importance of solidarity. Looking ahead, the Energy Minister reassured residents that the government is making preparations to provide pipe-borne water and improve local roads as part of ongoing development projects. Dr Jinapor’s story is one of hope, urging supporters to stand together and trust that their patience will be rewarded as the government’s initiatives take root. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Bawumia Defies Arrest Threats, Says NPP Will Not Be Silenced
The flagbearer of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has declared that the party will not be cowed or intimidated by the recent arrests involving some of its members, insisting that the NPP remains determined to take its message and political ideas to the people of Ghana. His remarks come at a time of growing unease within the party following a series of arrests targeting prominent NPP figures by security agencies. Among those recently arrested are the Bono Regional Chairman of the NPP, Kwame Baffoe, popularly known as Abronye DC, as well as the Agona West NPP Organiser, David Essendoh. The developments have sparked concern among party supporters, with many questioning the motive behind the actions. Speaking during an engagement with student leaders at the University of Ghana on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, ahead of a three-day boot camp organised by the NPP, Dr. Bawumia struck a defiant tone, assuring party faithful that the arrests would not discourage the party from actively participating in national political discourse. According to him, the NPP’s response would not be driven by fear, but rather by sustained engagement with Ghanaians through debate and the presentation of ideas. “We will take the debate and ideas to the country, and we will make our case. We are, however, saying that we will not be intimidated,” Dr. Bawumia stated. He further stressed the party’s resolve by declaring that no amount of arrests would silence the NPP. “You can arrest all of us. We will come back and make our case to the people of Ghana,” he added. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
EU Envoy Urges Ghana to Sustain Stability and Attract More European Investment
The European Union (EU) Ambassador to Ghana, Rune Skinnnebach, has called on Ghana to maintain its strong record of economic and political stability, emphasizing that such efforts are key to attracting more European investors and strengthening Ghana’s reputation as a top investment destination in West Africa. Speaking at a Career Service Centre programme for young people at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) on Thursday, May 14, 2026, Ambassador Skinnnebach highlighted Ghana’s current stability as a positive signal for investors. However, he cautioned that upholding investor confidence would require continued economic reforms and good governance, especially during election periods, when uncertainty can be heightened. The ambassador warned that instability in the Sahel and neighbouring countries could pose risks to Ghana’s peace and security. Against this backdrop, he reaffirmed the European Union’s commitment to supporting Ghana’s democratic stability and ongoing development. Ambassador Skinnnebach also underscored the importance of democratic freedoms, encouraging Ghanaians to use these rights to hold leaders and public institutions accountable. He urged Ghana to leverage the EU’s Global Gateway Investment Package for Africa, which has mobilized 150 billion euros since 2022, to secure greater development financing and attract strategic investments. “This is a huge amount, of course. It’s a merger of traditional development financing, international financial institutions’ financing, and private sector investments,” he explained. The ambassador pointed out that the European Union remains Ghana’s largest investor, top export market, and leading development partner. However, he stressed that continued investment would depend on Ghana’s ability to offer an attractive, stable business environment. “It has to make sure that it has the required political and macroeconomic stability, that they have the business-friendly climate, that they have the functioning infrastructures, that make the legal frameworks, that makes itself attractive for European investors,” he stated. “If that is in place, then the European investors will come. If it’s in place, but not as good as in neighbouring countries, then the European investors will go to neighbouring countries.” Ambassador Skinnnebach’s message was clear: Ghana’s future as a regional investment leader hinges on its commitment to stability, reform, and accountability. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Dr. Bawumia Rallies NPP Youth for 2028 Leadership and Victory
The Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has called on the party’s youth wing to prepare for leadership and work tirelessly towards winning back power in the 2028 general elections. Dr. Bawumia delivered this rallying message during a meeting with student leaders ahead of a three-day boot camp organised by the party on Wednesday, May 13, 2026. He explained that the training programme was designed to empower young party members with the skills and experience needed to take up key leadership roles in the future. “I want you to be assured that this training program is for your benefit because we want the youth to take key leadership positions,” Dr. Bawumia told the gathering. “And we cannot get you into key leadership positions if we don’t prepare you for the uptake of these leadership positions.” Confident about the NPP’s chances in 2028, Dr. Bawumia stressed the importance of early organisation and mobilisation. “2028, Inshallah, it is going to happen in 2028. It is possible. It is possible. And we are going to work towards it,” he declared, emphasizing that victory would not come by chance but through determined preparation. He underscored the decisive role the youth would play in the next election, just as they did in 2024, making student engagement and leadership development a central part of the party’s campaign strategy. “The youth will take over the key positions as we move forward in this country. You know that the vote is largely youth-dominated. 2028, as it was in 2024, will be a youth-dominated election,” he noted. Dr. Bawumia also announced plans to deepen the party’s engagement with the Tertiary Students Confederacy of the New Patriotic Party (TESCON), promising to visit several campuses in the coming years to share the party’s ideas and vision. “We will take the debate, the ideas to the country, and we will make our case,” he said. Addressing the issue of political pressure, Dr. Bawumia insisted that the NPP would not be intimidated. “We are, however, saying that we will not be intimidated. You can arrest all of us. We will come back and make our case to the people of Ghana,” he asserted. He concluded by urging the student leaders to stand united behind the party’s efforts and seize the opportunities offered by the training programme. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
NPP Bono Regional Chairman Abronye DC Remanded Amid Misinformation Probe
The Bono Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kwame Baffoe, popularly known as Abronye DC, has been remanded in custody for two weeks as authorities pursue ongoing investigations into allegations of misinformation and offensive public statements. Abronye DC’s latest arrest took place on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, coming just weeks after he was granted bail following a previous arrest related to the same matter. His initial detention occurred on Monday, April 13, when he was picked up by security officials amid allegations of offensive conduct, false publication, and making statements considered likely to incite fear and panic among the public. After his first arrest, Abronye DC was released on bail while investigations continued. However, with authorities intensifying their probe, the outspoken regional chairman was rearrested as part of broader efforts to curb the spread of alleged misinformation and inflammatory public remarks that could disturb public order. Details surrounding Abronye DC’s most recent arrest remain scarce, with officials yet to clarify the specific circumstances or confirm whether new charges will be brought against him. Sources close to the investigations suggest that the case underscores a renewed crackdown by security agencies on the dissemination of false information and provocative commentary in the public space. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
NDC Deputy General Secretary Urges Calm After Internal Communications Controversy
In the wake of a heated debate within the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Deputy General Secretary Mustapha Gbande has stepped forward to ease tensions and promote unity among party supporters. The controversy erupted after comments made by Gbande’s junior officer, Eric Adjei, were interpreted by some as targeting a senior party member, sparking internal backlash and public debate. In a statement addressing the matter, Mr. Gbande described Eric Adjei as a “favourite junior officer” and argued that the situation had been blown out of proportion. He appealed to party members to avoid internal rifts that could distract from the NDC’s broader goals. Gbande clarified that his original engagement aimed to discuss structural challenges facing the party’s grassroots, not to single out any individual or focus on jobs or financial concerns. “No specific individuals were mentioned,” he stressed, explaining that the intent was to spotlight systemic issues, not ignite personal disputes. The Deputy General Secretary revealed that he had privately cautioned Adjei over what he termed a lapse in public communication, and noted that Adjei had acknowledged the concern. Gbande went on to defend Adjei’s record, describing him as a dedicated communicator who has served the Bono Region branch of the NDC in a communications capacity since 2018. Underscoring the need for unity and coordination, Gbande urged party communicators to keep internal differences from spilling into public arguments. He called on all supporters to remain focused and avoid misinterpretations that could threaten party cohesion, reinforcing the importance of working together toward the party’s shared objectives. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Chairman Wontumi Unveils Powerhouse Campaign Team for NPP National Chairman Race
Bernard Antwi Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi, has taken a decisive step in his bid for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) National Chairman position by officially unveiling his campaign team. The announcement comes after what the Ashanti Regional Chairman described as extensive nationwide consultations, engaging party stakeholders and grassroots supporters from every corner of Ghana. At the helm of the campaign is former Sunyani East Member of Parliament and ex-Majority Chief Whip, Kwasi Ameyaw-Cheremeh, who will serve as Campaign Chairman. Supporting him as Campaign Manager is George Boahen Oduro, the former New Edubiase MP and former Deputy Minister for Food and Agriculture. The team boasts a lineup of influential NPP figures. Among them are former Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources George Mireku Duker, Nhyiaeso MP and former Deputy Finance Minister Stephen Amoah, former Dome-Kwabenya MP Sarah Adwoa Safo, former Trobu MP Moses Anim, former Central Regional Minister Justina Marigold Assan, and former Ablekuma North MP Akua Afriyie. The campaign also includes former government spokesperson on Governance and Security, Palgrave Boakye-Danquah. A statement issued by campaign spokesperson David Boakye highlighted that the team’s composition is a testament to unity, inclusiveness, and the growing confidence in Chairman Wontumi’s leadership within the NPP. Chairman Wontumi expressed strong faith in his team’s ability to run a disciplined, issue-based campaign, emphasizing party unity, grassroots mobilisation, and organisational strengthening as top priorities. He further reiterated his commitment to repositioning the NPP for a resounding victory in the 2028 general elections. Source: Apexnewsgh.com