The leadership of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has been instructed to produce Chairman Wontumi, also known as Bernard Antwi Boasiako, before the Kumasi Traditional Council at the Manhyia Palace on Monday, January 29, 2024.
This directive stems from purported derogatory remarks made by Chairman Wontumi against the Asantehene approximately two weeks ago.
Scheduled to appear alongside Chairman Wontumi is Lawyer Maurice Ampaw, who is also accused of making similar disparaging statements on radio. The management of the radio station that broadcasted these comments has also been summoned by the Kumasi Traditional Council.
Originally slated for an appearance on January 22, 2024, at the Manhyia Palace, Chairman Wontumi was unable to attend due to health reasons. NPP General Secretary Justin Kodua and Organiser Henry Nana Boakye represented him, leading a party delegation to the palace. In the absence of the Asantehene, the Bantamahene, Baffour Owusu Amankwatia (VI), presided over the proceedings.
During the session, the NPP General Secretary informed the council that Chairman Wontumi was indisposed and requested a two-week period for his recovery. However, the faction leaders of the traditional council vehemently opposed this request, highlighting the absence of a medical report to substantiate Wontumi’s health condition. Additionally, lawyer Maurice Ampaw was implicated for his alleged derogatory remarks in alignment with Chairman Wontumi’s statements.
In the final remarks, Bantamahene, Baffour Owusu Amankwatia, ordered the Ashanti Regional NPP Chair to appear before the traditional council on the following Monday. This development underscores the gravity of the situation as the Kumasi Traditional Council seeks resolution and accountability regarding the alleged offensive remarks.
