Bernard Antwi Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi and serving as the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), paid a visit to former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia at his private office in Accra today.

This meeting was after Chairman Wontumi's release from the custody of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO).

Earlier in the day, Chairman Wontumi had visited the NPP headquarters in Accra, where he was warmly received by party executives and supporters.

Chairman Wontumi was arrested on May 27, 2025, following an invitation by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) for questioning related to allegations of illegal mining activities.

Subsequently, he was taken into custody by EOCO, where he was detained for several days. The Deputy Attorney General, Justice Srem Sai, disclosed that Wontumi was under investigation for multiple offenses, including fraud, causing financial loss to the state, and money laundering.

These investigations are part of a broader effort to address economic crimes and involve collaboration with international law enforcement agencies, he said.

After spending nearly a week in EOCO custody, Chairman Wontumi was granted bail on June 2, 2025. The bail was set at GH₵50 million with two sureties, one of whom was Dr. Bryan Acheampong, the Member of Parliament for Abetifi and Minister for Food and Agriculture. The NPP's General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong, confirmed the bail conditions and expressed gratitude to Dr. Acheampong for his support.

Presidential staffer and NDC communicator Beatrice Annan stated that his rights were not violated during his detention and that he was granted bail promptly.

The visit to Dr. Bawumia is seen by political analysts as a strategic move to reaffirm alliances within the NPP, especially as the party navigates internal dynamics ahead of upcoming elections. Chairman Wontumi's engagements suggest a swift return to political activities and a focus on consolidating support within the party's ranks.

As investigations by EOCO continue, Chairman Wontumi is expected to comply with all legal proceedings while maintaining his political responsibilities. The developments surrounding his arrest and subsequent release have garnered significant public interest, highlighting the intersection of legal processes and political activities in Ghana's democratic landscape.