The Deputy Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Dr Justice Srem Sai, has raised concerns about the possibility of formal Ashanti Regional Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako popularly known as Chairman Wontumi fleeing the country, citing a previous bench warrant issued against him and what he describes as significant changes in his circumstances.
Speaking exclusively with Austin Woode on Morning Starr, Dr Srem Sai said it would be inaccurate to portray Bernard Antwi Boasiako as having been completely law-abiding throughout the court proceedings.
He pointed to an earlier stage of the case when the court issued a bench warrant for Bernard Antwi after he failed to appear before the court.
“You would also remember that when the case started, the court actually issued a bench warrant for Chairman Wontumi,” Dr Srem Sai said.
According to him, although the accused eventually appeared before the court, the incident supports concerns previously raised by his lawyer that intervention was sometimes required to ensure his attendance.
Dr Srem Sai further argued that the circumstances have now changed significantly following Chairman Wontumi conviction and his intention to appeal.
He explained that an accused person who is still standing trial may have stronger hopes of being acquitted, but that situation could change after conviction.
“His hopes of success is much higher than when he has already been convicted and he wants to appeal the conviction,” he said.
The Deputy Attorney General also cited other cases involving Chairman Wontumi and potential investigative matters as factors that could increase the incentive to flee.
He, however, stressed that he was not suggesting that chairman Wontumi would definitely flee.
“We are not saying that’s what he would do, but I mean, he could consider that option of flying,” Dr Srem Sai said.
“We are just putting these factors before the judge so the judge can make an informed decision whether to grant the appeal or not to grant it,” he added.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh/Pamela Quayeson
