A dramatic twist has hit the ongoing criminal trial involving New Patriotic Party Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi‑Boasiako (Chairman Wontumi), as his lead counsel, Andy Appiah‑Kubi, Esq., has allegedly filed an application to withdraw from the case.
The development comes just weeks before the court is scheduled to deliver judgment in the matter. According to court filings sighted by Sankofaonline, the application was submitted in the case titled The Republic vs. Wontumi & Others, widely known as the Samreboi Case. Appiah‑Kubi is expected to appear before Criminal Court 4 on Monday, June 15, where he will move the application and present his reasons for stepping down as counsel for the first accused. The timing of the withdrawal request has raised eyebrows within legal and political circles, given that the court has already completed the trial phase and fixed July 3, 2026, as the date for delivering its final judgment.
Legal analysts note that while lawyers are permitted to withdraw from cases, doing so at such an advanced stage is unusual and may signal deeper disagreements or strategic recalculations behind the scenes. This aligns with broader discussions on late‑stage legal withdrawals. The Samreboi Case has attracted national attention due to the political stature of the accused and the seriousness of the charges. Chairman Wontumi and others are standing trial over allegations linked to financial impropriety and misconduct, with the state expected to present its final position once the withdrawal application is addressed.
Observers say the court’s handling of the withdrawal request will be crucial, as it must balance the accused’s right to counsel with the need to avoid unnecessary delays in a case already nearing its conclusion. This reflects broader principles of fair trial rights and judicial efficiency. With judgment only weeks away, all eyes will be on Criminal Court 4 on June 15 to determine whether the court will grant the withdrawal and how this late development may affect the final stretch of the trial.
Sankofaonline will continue to monitor proceedings closely as Ghana awaits one of the most anticipated rulings of the year.
