The trial of Bernard Antwi Boasiako, a prominent regional political figure and business executive, is set to begin Tuesday in Accra, following formal charges tied to alleged illegal mining operations.

Mr. Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi, currently serves as the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP). He is facing prosecution in connection with Akonta Mining Ltd., a company reportedly linked to him, over allegations of operating without the necessary legal permits.

 Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Dr. Dominic Ayine, last week directed the Criminal Investigations Department of the Ghana Police Service to take action should Mr. Boasiako fail to appear for questioning. He complied with the directive on Monday, appearing before CID investigators alongside his legal counsel, Andy Appiah-Kubi. He has since been released on bail set at GH¢1 million ($83,000).

The charge sheet, according to Mr. Boasiako, centers on illegal mining, specifically “mining without a license.” Speaking briefly to reporters outside the CID headquarters, he praised the handling of the investigation.

“I want to congratulate the police system for showing professionalism,” Mr. Boasiako said. “We also thank the Attorney General for facilitating the entire process.”

He acknowledged the seriousness of the charges but emphasized the legal process ahead. “We are not here to proclaim innocence in the media,” he said. “We will go to court. That is where the decision will be taken.”

Illegal mining — locally known as galamsey — has remained a politically sensitive issue in Ghana, where successive governments have struggled to regulate the sector amid mounting environmental concerns and community tensions. The involvement of a senior party official in such a case marks a significant test for both the ruling party and law enforcement institutions.

The proceedings are scheduled to begin Tuesday, October 7, in Accra.