Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has reportedly refused to eat since his arrest, according to Frank Annoh-Dompreh, Member of Parliament for Nsawam/Adoagyiri.
Speaking in a candid interview on Peace FM, the MP disclosed that Wontumi has deliberately embarked on a hunger strike as a form of protest while in the custody of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO).
“The truth is that he [Wontumi] says he will not eat and has not eaten since his arrest. In fact, that is a decision he has taken upon himself and it’s a hunger strike,” Annoh-Dompreh revealed during the program.
The lawmaker also expressed deep concern over the secrecy surrounding Wontumi’s health status, accusing officials of denying them access to both the chairman and any substantial medical updates.
“The doctors have been tight-lipped and when we ask questions, they don’t provide any helpful information.
What we know is that he was taken to the BNI clinic close to the Immigration head office for medical attention, but as to how he is faring and the drugs being administered to him, we don’t know,” he added.
“They are not allowing his lawyers and us to even see and check on him. Has he killed anyone?” he questioned.
Wontumi was arrested by EOCO on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, shortly after a separate engagement with the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) headquarters in Accra. His arrest has sparked intense political debate, with critics accusing the current administration of targeting opposition figures.
On Wednesday, May 28, he was granted bail of GH₵50 million with two sureties. However, his legal team had yet to meet the full bail requirements as of Wednesday evening. Reports indicate that one surety has been secured, and another is still pending.
In a dramatic show of support, former Assin Central MP and NPP stalwart, Kennedy Agyapong, is said to have stepped forward to offer himself as one of the sureties to facilitate Wontumi’s release.
The situation continues to draw sharp criticism from within the NPP ranks. Concerns are growing about Wontumi’s health and the alleged attempts to frustrate efforts to secure his release.
The hunger strike, coupled with restricted access to both his legal team and close allies, has triggered outrage among party members and raised fresh questions about due process under the current administration.
