Minority MPs Return to Parliament After Vowing to ‘Sleep’ at EOCO With Wontumi

Members of the Minority Caucus in Parliament returned to their seats on Friday, May 30, just a day after walking out in protest over the GH₵50 million bail conditions imposed on NPP Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.

Their swift return surprised many political watchers, especially after Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin had pledged strong solidarity with Wontumi.

“We don’t have GH₵50 million. Where is he going to get it from? They must do the right thing, and we will not be part of any proceeding until then,” he stated on the parliamentary floor on Thursday before leading the walkout.

The Minority’s protest was in response to what they described as excessive and politically driven bail conditions following Wontumi’s arrest by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) on Tuesday, May 27.

He was later granted bail with two sureties, one of which his legal team is still working to secure.

Afenyo-Markin even vowed that they were prepared to “spend nights with him” if needed, signaling deep party loyalty and resistance.

However, less than 24 hours later, Minority MPs were back in Parliament, actively engaging in legislative business.

Although no official explanation was given for the quick return, it has fueled speculation that behind-the-scenes negotiations or assurances may have influenced the decision.

Their return sparked reactions in Parliament, with some MPs, including Bolgatanga Central’s Isaac Adongo, using the moment to tease the Minority over their quick reversal.

“Wontumi is sleeping there alone, and you are here asking for more holidays,” Adongo said in a jesting tone during Friday’s session.

Meanwhile, the Deputy Attorney General, Justice Srem-Sai, confirmed on social media that Wontumi remains under investigation for serious offences including fraud, money laundering, and causing financial loss to the state. He added that asset recovery efforts were already underway.

As the legal process unfolds, the events surrounding Wontumi’s case continue to stir political drama in Ghana’s Parliament.

Whether the Minority will stage further protests remains to be seen, but their brief boycott has already left a strong impression on both sides of the aisle and among the general public.