Chairman Wontumi, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), remains in the custody of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) as efforts to secure his release are in limbo.
Speaking after a visit to the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) office in Accra, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin said that despite progress, Wontumi would not be released just yet.
“We came to meet the second surety, but as it stands, Chairman Wontumi will remain in EOCO custody until all documentation and legal processes are completed,” he said.
The Minority Leader did not give further details about the surety or the next steps, but confirmed that discussions are ongoing to meet the bail conditions as soon as possible.
Wontumi was arrested four days ago over allegations of fraud, money laundering, and other financial crimes. He was granted bail set at GH₵50 million with two sureties, both to be justified. So far, only one has been secured.
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Meanwhile, his lawyer, Andy Appiah-Kubi, says reports suggesting former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has stepped in to provide a second surety for his client are unconfirmed.
Mr. Appiah-Kubi said, “I don’t have any information from the former Vice President standing surety or declaring his intention to stand surety.”
The legal team has filed an application in court seeking a possible variation of the bail terms, which the lawyer described as excessive. In the meantime, they are actively searching for a second surety to meet the bail requirements.
Mr. Appiah-Kubi noted that his client has not been on a hunger strike, contrary to earlier claims. However, he confirmed that Wontumi has been unwell and is currently receiving medical attention.
“We are hoping to receive the second person to stand as surety and the documentation to be justified so we can proceed with his release,” he said.
As legal processes unfold, tension continues to build among Wontumi’s supporters, many of whom have called the bail terms politically motivated and unjust.
