- BY Nadia Ntiamoah
The ongoing trial involving Ashanti Regional NPP Chairman, Bernard Antwi-Boasiako—popularly known as Chairman Wontumi—and Akonta Mining has taken a new twist, with the defence accusing state prosecutors of failing to release critical documents needed to properly prepare their case.
The development has reignited long-standing public scrutiny of the controversial mining operations linked to the influential politician.
The case, which stems from allegations that Akonta Mining conducted operations on its Samreboi concession without the legally required permits, has been closely followed by civil society groups and anti-galamsey campaigners.
For some time now, Akonta Mining has faced intense public criticism, particularly in 2022 when the company was accused of engaging in illegal mining within the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve—claims the company and Chairman Wontumi strongly denied.
Though a government inquiry later stated that Akonta Mining did not hold active mining permits in the forest reserve at the time, the controversy never fully faded.
It is against this backdrop that the current criminal trial is unfolding.
During Thursday November 25, case management conference what was expected to serve as a procedural session instead turned contentious when lead defence lawyer, Andy Appiah-Kubi, told the court that the prosecution had failed to provide a complete set of documents relevant to the case.
According to Appiah-Kubi, the disclosures filed on October 31 and November 11 were “insufficient” and omitted key materials the defence believes are necessary for fairness and due process.
He explained that the defence had anticipated receiving additional documents—particularly those in the prosecution’s possession that may not necessarily be tendered as evidence but could nonetheless guide the accused in preparing their strategy.
Such materials, he argued, are standard in comprehensive disclosures during criminal trials to ensure transparency.
Although the defence had already drafted a formal motion requesting full and further disclosures, Appiah-Kubi noted that it was yet to be filed, prompting him to ask the court for additional time.
The prosecution, however, maintained its position, insisting that all documents required for the case had already been handed over.
The presiding judge, Justice Audrey Kocuvie-Tay subsequently directed the defence to file and serve its motion once completed.
Additionally, the court ordered Chairman Wontumi and Akonta Mining to prepare a list of all potential defence witnesses—including their names and addresses—should the prosecution successfully establish a prima facie case.
The matter has been adjourned to December 8, 2025, when the court is expected to hear the defence’s formal application for additional disclosures.
