NPP’s street protest was unnecessary drama – Law Professor criticises party over Wontumi bail saga

A senior law lecturer at the University of Ghana, Professor Kwadwo Appiagyei-Atua, has taken a swipe at the New Patriotic Party (NPP) for what he describes as a dramatic and needless protest over the bail conditions of their Ashanti Regional Chairman, Mr. Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, also known as Chairman Wontumi.

Speaking on Channel One TV during a weekend news analysis show, the law professor did not mince words in calling out the NPP for abandoning legal procedures and turning to what he called “extralegal theatrics.”

“The NPP’s actions, leaving Parliament to stage a protest on the police premises, were unnecessary and created drama. This led to lawlessness,” he stated.

Mr. Antwi-Boasiako was granted bail with a GH¢50 million condition following investigations by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO). The NPP has since challenged the bail terms, describing them as excessive.

But Professor Appiagyei-Atua disagreed, saying the bail was reasonable given the nature of the allegations.

“Given the nature of the allegations, the GH¢50 million bail condition does not strike me as excessive. Legally, EOCO acted within their authority,” he explained.

“If the bail terms are thought to be too stringent, the proper legal step is to apply to the High Court for a variation. That’s the course Mr Antwi-Boasiako’s lawyers should have taken.”

He further criticised the NPP’s parliamentary members, many of whom are lawyers, for abandoning legal remedies in favour of what he called political spectacle.

“The MPs, many of whom are lawyers, are familiar with legal procedures and have followed them before. Opting for this extralegal approach suggests an intention to politicise the matter.”

Professor Appiagyei-Atua also noted that the NPP seemed to be struggling with its new position in opposition and may be using incidents like this to reassure their base.

“It appears the NPP is still grappling with the reality of being out of power. They seem intent on showing their supporters that they stand by their own, especially a prominent figure like Mr Antwi-Boasiako,” he observed.
“They should have pursued legal and political strategies in balance, rather than letting things spiral.”

Wrapping up his remarks, he emphasised that the rule of law must always be respected, regardless of political affiliation.

“The law is no respecter of persons. It must apply to everyone, regardless of political party or position,” he concluded.