Andy Appiah-Kubi, the lawyer for Ashanti Regional New Patriotic Party (NPP) Chairman Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, also known as Chairman Wontumi, has withdrawn from representing his client in the ongoing Akonta Mining criminal case, citing concerns about the proceedings and the court’s handling of the matter.
In an interview with Eyewitness News on Thursday, June 11, he said that his decision was heavily impacted by his dissatisfaction with the court’s handling of the matter, including its attitude, record, and decisions.
“I have withdrawn from the Akonta Mining case in Criminal Court 4 with stated reasons in the affidavit in support of my motion. My disappointment is in the attitude, record and the determinations of the court so far in handling these matters before the court. I’m so totally disappointed that is why I am withdrawing,” he said.
Appiah-Kubi insisted that the two cases are separate and should not be confused, rejecting claims that his resignation is connected to the plea negotiations involving Chairman Wontumi on the EXIM Bank alleged fraud case.
He emphasised that his withdrawal is restricted to the Akonta Mining prosecution and insisted that he would continue to represent Chairman Wontumi in all of his other legal problems, including the ongoing EXIM Bank case.
His remarks coincide with the ongoing legal processes in the Republic, Akonta Mining Limited, and Bernard Antwi-Boasiako case, which has been postponed until June 16 in order to continue the cross-examination of a prosecution witness.
The prosecution alleges that Akonta Mining carried out mining activities within the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve without the necessary approvals from state authorities, including the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources.
Bernard Antwi-Boasiako and his company have denied wrongdoing, while the trial forms part of broader efforts by the state to tackle illegal mining activities, commonly known as galamsey, which continue to threaten Ghana’s forests and water bodies.
Source: newsthemegh.com