Businessman and politician Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has announced a change in his legal representation in the ongoing criminal case against him.

In a statement issued by him, Wontumi said he has appointed former Member of Parliament and lawyer, Mr. Samuel Atta Akyea, as his new lead defence counsel.

He explained that the decision was taken after careful consultation and is in line with his constitutional right to choose his own lawyer.

According to him, the change is intended to ensure that his defence is properly and effectively presented before the court in accordance with the law.

Wontumi expressed appreciation to his previous legal team for their work on the case, stressing that the decision to replace them should not be seen as a reflection of their competence or dedication.

He noted that he remains committed to defending himself through due process and insisted that, like every accused person, he is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

He added that the prosecution carries the burden of proving the charges against him beyond reasonable doubt.

Wontumi further stated that his new lawyer will take steps to review the case file and handle all necessary applications and submissions to protect his right to a fair trial.

He called on the public and all parties involved to avoid speculation and allow the legal process to continue without interference.

He expressed confidence that the court process will be guided by the Constitution and the principles of justice and fairness.

By: Jacob Aggrey

The Minister of Government Communications, Felix Ofosu Kwakye, says President John Mahama’s decision to reduce the number of political appointees has saved the state millions of cedis in public spending.

Addressing journalists during the Government Accountability Series at the Jubilee House on Monday, June 15, 2026, Mr. Ofosu Kwakye said the current administration has reduced the number of political appointees from 355 under the previous government to 233.

According to him, the reduction has significantly lowered government expenditure on salaries, accommodation, official vehicles and other benefits provided to political appointees.

He explained that reports suggesting the current government is spending more on compensation despite having fewer appointees were inaccurate and failed to take into account salary adjustments approved for officials who served under the previous administration.

Mr. Ofosu Kwakye noted that the salaries and conditions of service currently being enjoyed by President Mahama’s appointees were determined by a committee established under the previous government and not by the current administration.

He said former appointees under the Akufo-Addo administration had received salary top-ups and other payments based on recommendations made by the committee, adding that these additional payments were not reflected in some of the comparisons being made.

“The reduction has saved money, running into millions,” he stated.

The minister further indicated that President Mahama has not purchased new vehicles for many of his appointees, with some officials using their personal vehicles for official duties.

According to him, this has further reduced government expenditure and contributed to efforts to ensure prudent management of public resources.

Mr. Ofosu Kwakye also criticised reports that suggested there was no financial benefit from reducing the number of appointees. He argued that such reports failed to seek clarification from government before publication and therefore did not present the full picture.

He maintained that when all costs associated with political appointments are considered, including salaries, accommodation, vehicles and other benefits, the current administration is spending less because it has fewer appointees.

Mr. Ofosu Kwakye reiterated that the government’s decision to maintain a lean presidency forms part of efforts to reduce public expenditure while ensuring efficient governance.

By: Jacob Aggrey