Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has strongly criticised the GHS50 million bail set by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) for Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
Speaking in Parliament on Tuesday, May 27, during his first session since the House resumed, Afenyo-Markin said the bail condition is excessive and unjust.
He argued that it appears designed to punish rather than uphold justice.
The proceedings briefly turned tense when the First Deputy Speaker, who was presiding, reminded him of Standing Orders 93 and 67, which guide parliamentary conduct.
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Despite this, Afenyo-Markin was allowed to continue his remarks after members from his side rose to their feet and sang lines from the national anthem.
He noted that Chairman Wontumi is currently receiving medical treatment at the National Intelligence Bureau clinic and questioned why someone in such a condition should be subjected to such a stringent financial condition.
“It’s clear the 50 million cedis is to punish him,” he stated plainly, urging EOCO to act within the bounds of the law and withdraw the bail condition.
He warned that if EOCO failed to respond, Minority MPs would register their disapproval by boycotting proceedings.
The Deputy Speaker responded by saying Parliament cannot interfere with EOCO’s operations. Following this, the Minority staged a walkout, and the sitting was adjourned.
