The People’s National Party (PNP) has raised concerns over what it describes as unequal application of justice in Ghana, citing the conviction and 20-year prison sentence handed to Ashanti Regional NPP Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, in a petition to the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights.
In its petition submitted to UN Human Rights Commissioner Volker Türk, the PNP argued that differences in the treatment of individuals accused of similar offences have contributed to public perceptions of selective justice and weakened confidence in state institutions.
The party said Wontumi’s conviction in a case prosecuted by the Attorney-General had raised questions among some citizens about whether the law is being applied equally across the political divide.
The PNP stated that while the former NPP regional chairman had been sentenced to 20 years in prison, there were concerns that individuals linked to the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) who have faced allegations relating to illegal mining activities had not experienced similar legal consequences.
“Justice must be applied equally, regardless of political affiliation. Selective justice, or even the perception of it, weakens public confidence in democratic institutions,” the petition stated.
The party argued that the fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, and financial crimes must be pursued without political considerations, insisting that all individuals accused of wrongdoing should be treated under the same legal standards.
The PNP also linked the Wontumi case to broader concerns about political freedoms, opposition participation and public confidence in Ghana’s justice system.
It warned that perceptions of unequal treatment could undermine trust in democratic institutions.
