Wontumi names Atta Akyea as new lead counsel in Akonta Mining case

Chairman Wontumi has appointed former Abuakwa South MP Samuel Atta Akyea to lead his defence in the Akonta Mining criminal case.

The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party, whose official name is Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, announced the change after his former lawyer, Andy Appiah-Kubi, indicated his intention to withdraw from the matter.

The appointment comes at a delicate stage of the proceedings, after the High Court in Accra declined Mr Appiah-Kubi’s formal application to withdraw as counsel.

In its ruling on Monday, June 15, the court held that the application was not supported by legal authority or judicial precedent.

The court also noted that the application had not been served on Chairman Wontumi, a step it considered necessary in the circumstances.

Following the ruling, Chairman Wontumi said he had decided to reconstitute his legal team after consultation.

He said the appointment of Mr Atta Akyea was an exercise of his constitutional right to be represented by a lawyer of his choice.

“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,” he stated.

He said the change was intended to ensure that his defence is presented fully, effectively and in accordance with the law.

Chairman Wontumi also thanked his previous legal team for their work.

He stressed that the decision should not be seen as a criticism of their competence or commitment.

According to him, the move was simply an exercise of his right to determine the composition of his defence team.

He added that his new lawyers would review the record of proceedings and take all necessary steps to protect his right to a fair hearing.

Mr Appiah-Kubi had earlier announced that he was stepping away from the case, citing concerns about the handling of the proceedings.

Speaking on Eyewitness News on June 11, he said he was dissatisfied with the court’s attitude, record and determination in managing the matter.

The case involves Akonta Mining Company Limited and Chairman Wontumi in relation to alleged illegal mining offences.

Chairman Wontumi said the charges before the court are serious, but maintained that he remains committed to defending himself through due process.

He also reminded the public that he is entitled to the presumption of innocence until proven guilty by a competent court.

He expressed confidence in the judicial process and urged the public to avoid speculation while the case continues.