A Senior Lecturer at Kumasi Technical University, Mr. Ishaq Kyei-Brobbey, has stated that ongoing allegations linked to mining activities involving Bernard Antwi Boasiako should not prevent him from pursuing his ambition to become the National Chairman of the New Patriotic Party.
He said he has appeared on several platforms where he has had the opportunity to address concerns surrounding the mining activities associated with Chairman Wontumi.
According to him, the allegations against Wontumi have shifted over time—from Akonta Mining to issues involving a bank, and later cocoa road contracts, describing it as a pattern of changing narratives.
Mr. Ishaq noted, “The focus of the allegations keeps changing from Akonta Mining to other issues, which raises questions about consistency.”
He maintained that Wontumi’s decision to contest for the NPP National Chairmanship is a step in the right direction. He added that during Wontumi’s tenure as Ashanti Regional Chairman, he worked closely with him, especially during his third-term bid, and even recommended professionals to support his leadership preparation.
He stated, “Looking at how he engaged professionals and the effort he put into his campaign, I supported the idea of preparing him for a national leadership role.”
Speaking on the Wontumi Morning Show with host Oheneba Nana Asiedu, he argued that controversies surrounding illegal mining (galamsey) and the Akonta Mining court case should not disqualify him from seeking higher office.
He further claimed that a resident of Suame in the Ashanti Region told him both the NPP and NDC are concerned about Chairman Wontumi due to his strong grassroots mobilization skills.
Mr. Ishaq said, “Chairman Wontumi is a typical grassroots leader, and that is what makes him influential at the base of the party.”
He also criticized the National Democratic Congress (NDC), alleging that Ghanaians are losing confidence in the party. He accused them of focusing on targeting individuals like Wontumi instead of addressing illegal mining.
He stressed, “This must stop and should not be tolerated.”