Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has appointed lawyer and former Member of Parliament for Akim Abuakwa South, Samuel Atta Akyea, as his new Lead Defence Counsel in ongoing criminal proceedings against him.
Chairman Wontumi, in a statement issued said the decision was taken “after careful consultation” and in exercise of his constitutional right to legal representation by counsel of his choosing.
“This decision has been taken after careful consultation and in the exercise of my constitutional right to legal representation by counsel of my own choosing. It is intended to ensure that my defence is presented fully, effectively, and in accordance with the law,” the statement read.
He expressed appreciation to his previous legal team for their “services and commitment,” adding that the change “should not be construed as a reflection on their competence or dedication but rather as an exercise of my legal right to determine the composition of my defence team.”
Chairman Wontumi noted that the charges before the court are serious and reiterated his commitment to defending himself through due process.
“As with every accused person, I am entitled to the presumption of innocence until proven guilty by a competent court of law, and the burden rests on the prosecution to establish every element of the offences charged beyond reasonable doubt,” he stated.
According to the statement, Atta Akyea will take “necessary lawful steps to assume responsibility” for the defence, review the record of proceedings, and make all submissions and applications to safeguard his client’s constitutional right to a fair hearing.
“I have full confidence that the judicial process will be guided by the Constitution, the laws of Ghana, and the principles of justice and fairness,” Chairman Wontumi added.
He requested that all parties and the public “allow the legal process to proceed without speculation or prejudice” while his defence is conducted in accordance with the law.
