We Had to Help One of Our Own” – Bryan Acheampong Explains Support for Wontumi’s Bail

Former Minister for Food and Agriculture and Member of Parliament for Abetifi, Dr. Bryan Acheampong, has clarified his role in securing the release of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, from the custody of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO).

Chairman Wontumi had been in EOCO custody since May 27, 2025, as part of an ongoing investigation into serious allegations including fraud, money laundering, and causing financial loss to the state. He was granted bail in the amount of GH¢50 million, with a requirement to provide two sureties with justification—conditions that initially proved difficult to meet, resulting in his extended detention.

Dr. Acheampong, stepping in to help fulfil the legal requirement, submitted the necessary documentation to act as surety, ultimately facilitating Wontumi’s release on Monday, June 2.

Speaking to members of the press after the bail was successfully executed, Dr. Acheampong described his intervention as a moral obligation and an expression of loyalty to a fellow party member in need. “What matters is that one of us was in a difficult situation,” he explained. “He had been arrested and, as part of the legal procedure, required sureties to secure his temporary release. We’ve done that, and he has now been freed to assist with the investigations from outside custody.”

The Abetifi MP emphasised that his involvement was not intended to influence the investigation or undermine the legal process. Rather, he said it reflected the principles of unity and mutual support that the NPP values.

“We’re not here to obstruct justice,” he said. “We respect the work of the investigative institutions and believe in due process. But standing with a colleague in a time of difficulty is a human response, not a political calculation.”

The case surrounding Chairman Wontumi continues to attract public and political interest. His arrest and detention stem from wide-ranging investigations by EOCO into suspected economic crimes, which also include alleged links to illegal mining activities and financial misconduct. While EOCO has yet to file formal charges, the investigations are ongoing, and Wontumi is expected to report as needed while out on bail.

Acheampong’s decision to act as a surety has drawn mixed reactions. Some political observers and civil society actors have expressed concern about the optics of prominent politicians stepping in to support individuals under investigation for serious offences. However, within the NPP, the gesture has largely been interpreted as an act of party loyalty and personal commitment.

Dr. Acheampong dismissed criticism that such support compromises the justice process. “Providing surety is a lawful part of our judicial system. It does not interfere with the course of justice; it simply ensures that the accused will be available when called upon. That’s exactly what we’ve done.”

With Wontumi now released and back home, attention shifts to the next phase of the investigations. EOCO officials have indicated that the case may expand, including the possibility of international collaboration in tracking alleged illicit financial flows.

In the meantime, Dr. Acheampong maintains that the NPP will continue to support its members within the bounds of the law, while allowing the justice system to do its work. “We will continue to respect the legal process and offer support where needed,” he said. “That is how we protect both the rights of individuals and the integrity of our democracy.”