Drama in Kumasi: Wontumi to Face CID Today Amid Tensions

The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, is expected to appear before the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service today, Monday, 26 May 2025.

This follows a dramatic scene on Friday, 23 May, when a joint team of National Security operatives and police officers attempted to arrest the outspoken politician at his residence. The operation, however, was unsuccessful and quickly drew attention as hundreds of NPP supporters flooded the area in protest.

Tensions ran high as the crowd condemned the heavy police presence surrounding Wontumi’s home. Many questioned the secrecy and force behind the attempted arrest, especially as no official reason was given by the authorities.

Despite the standoff, Wontumi reportedly assured the officers of his cooperation and agreed to present himself voluntarily to the CID today, avoiding further confrontation.

Speaking to the media, his legal counsel, Kwame Adom Appiah, emphasized their readiness to cooperate with the police. “We are practising democracy. Wontumi is not someone who hides. He’s not a flight risk. He’s invested in this country and is not going anywhere,” Appiah stated.

The lawyer added that they were not concerned about the invitation, as they believe no criminal act has been committed. “We have not done anything criminal, and we are not afraid to meet the CID.”

Meanwhile, the Deputy Minister for the Interior, Ebenezer Okletey Terlabi, defended the actions of the security personnel, stating that the attempted arrest was within the legal rights of the agencies involved. He urged the public not to jump to conclusions as investigations unfold.

Wontumi, a high-profile political figure and well-known media personality, has long been a vocal and controversial leader in the Ashanti Region. His supporters view the incident as politically motivated, though no official charges or reasons have yet been disclosed.

All eyes are now on the CID headquarters as Wontumi’s appearance today could set the tone for a politically charged week in Ghana.