Wontumi appoints Lawyer Atta Akyea to replace Appiah Kubi

Legal Team restructured
Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has appointed lawyer Samuel Atta Akyea as his new Lead Defence Counsel in the ongoing criminal proceedings against him. The decision follows recent developments involving his former lawyer, Andy Appiah-Kubi, who had expressed his intention to withdraw from the case. According to Chairman Wontumi, the appointment was made after careful consultation and in line with his constitutional right to choose his legal representation. In a statement issued on Monday, June 15, Wontumi explained that the move was aimed at ensuring his defence is presented fully, effectively, and in accordance with the law.

Wontumi explains decision
Announcing the change, Wontumi stated that every accused person has the right to legal representation of their choice and that his decision should be viewed as an exercise of that right. “I wish to respectfully inform the Court, the parties, and the general public that I have decided to appoint Hon. Lawyer Samuel Atta Akyea as my new Lead Defence Counsel in the ongoing criminal proceedings against me,” he said. He emphasized that the decision was not a reflection on the competence or commitment of his former legal team but rather a strategic move to strengthen his defence as the case progresses.

Appreciation for former legal team
Chairman Wontumi expressed gratitude to his previous lawyers for their services throughout the proceedings. He praised their dedication and professionalism, stressing that the restructuring of his defence team should not be interpreted as dissatisfaction with their performance. According to him, the seriousness of the charges before the court requires a robust legal strategy, making it necessary to bring in new leadership for his defence.

Commitment to due process
Wontumi reiterated his commitment to defending himself through lawful means and maintaining confidence in the judicial process. He also reminded the public that under Ghana’s legal system, every accused person is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a competent court of law. He stressed that the burden remains on the prosecution to prove all elements of the alleged offences beyond reasonable doubt.

Atta Akyea to assume immediate responsibility
The statement indicated that Samuel Atta Akyea will immediately take over responsibility for the defence.
His first tasks will include reviewing the record of proceedings, assessing the status of the case, and making any necessary applications or submissions to protect his client’s right to a fair hearing.
Wontumi expressed confidence in Atta Akyea’s legal expertise and ability to effectively lead the defence team.

High Court rejects Appiah-Kubi’s withdrawal application
The appointment comes shortly after the High Court (Criminal Division) in Accra dismissed an application by Andy Appiah-Kubi seeking leave to withdraw from the case. The criminal matter involves Akonta Mining Company Limited, Kwame Antwi, and Chairman Wontumi. The Attorney-General opposed the application, arguing that there was no legal requirement for a lawyer to obtain the court’s permission before withdrawing legal services. The State further contended that the motion raised no issues requiring judicial determination. The court agreed with the Attorney-General’s position and ruled that the application was incompetent. Consequently, it struck out the motion.

Court sets new timeline
In its ruling, the court also clarified that filing closing addresses in the matter remains optional under the applicable procedural rules. To accommodate the parties, the court extended the deadline for filing any closing addresses to June 24, 2026. The case has subsequently been adjourned to July 3, 2026, when judgment is expected to be delivered.

Call for calm and fairness
As the case moves toward judgment, Chairman Wontumi has called on the public and all interested parties to avoid speculation and allow the judicial process to run its course. He reaffirmed his confidence in the courts and expressed hope that the matter would be resolved fairly and in accordance with the law. With Samuel Atta Akyea now leading the defence, attention is expected to focus on the final stages of the high-profile case as both sides prepare for the court’s judgment next month.