Andy Appiah-Kubi has withdrawn as counsel from one of the high-profile criminal cases involving Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, known as Chairman Wontumi, citing concerns over judicial proceedings.
Appiah-Kubi announced his decision on Asempa FM’s Ekosiisen program on Thursday, June 11, stating that he had already informed both his client and the High Court in Accra of his intent to step aside from the case.
Chairman Wontumi is facing three separate criminal cases: two related to alleged illegal mining activities, and a third involving accusations of defrauding the state-owned Ghana Export-Import Bank (GEXIM).
Without providing immediate detailed evidence, Appiah-Kubi suggested that external factors may be influencing the conduct of the trial.
He also expressed concern over what he described as the court’s insistence on his personal appearance despite prior notice of scheduling conflicts due to multiple legal commitments.
“The situation raises questions about fairness and professional accommodation within the judicial process,” he said.
The former Member of Parliament for Asante-Akim North hinted that the matter could be brought before the Ghana Bar Association (GBA) should a formal complaint be filed.
The withdrawal comes at a critical juncture in the legal battles facing Chairman Wontumi, whose cases have drawn significant public attention due to his prominence in the opposition NPP and the serious nature of the allegations, particularly around illegal mining, a key national issue with environmental and economic ramifications.
Allegations of judicial impropriety or external influence remain serious and require examination through official legal and professional channels.
The judiciary has repeatedly affirmed its independence, while the GBA has called for high professional standards from both lawyers and judges.
Legal observers expect Appiah-Kubi’s decision to spark debate over judicial discretion, case management, and counsel rights.
Court proceedings against Chairman Wontumi are set to continue as prosecutors pursue the charges.
