Chairman Wontumi has appointed Samuel Atta Akyea as his new lead lawyer after the High Court rejected Andy Appiah-Kubi's bid to withdraw from the case.

Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has appointed former Abuakwa South MP and lawyer Samuel Atta Akyea as lead counsel in the ongoing criminal proceedings linked to Akonta Mining.

The appointment was announced shortly after the High Court dismissed an application by lawyer Andy Appiah-Kubi seeking permission to withdraw from representing Wontumi in the case.

In its ruling on Monday, June 15, the court held that the application was not supported by any legal authority or judicial precedent. The court further noted that the application had not been served on the client, a procedural requirement it described as fundamental.

Reacting to the development, Chairman Wontumi said the decision to engage Atta Akyea followed extensive consultations and was aimed at ensuring a robust legal defence.

“This decision has been taken after careful consultation and in the exercise of my constitutional right to legal representation by counsel of my own choosing. It is intended to ensure that my defence is presented fully, effectively, and in accordance with the law,” he stated.

He thanked his former legal team for their professionalism and commitment, insisting that the change in representation should not be interpreted as a criticism of their work.

“My decision should not be construed as a reflection on their competence or dedication but rather as an exercise of my legal right to determine the composition of my defence team,” Wontumi added.

According to him, the newly constituted legal team will immediately assume responsibility for the case, review proceedings, and take all necessary legal steps to safeguard his right to a fair trial.

Wontumi also reaffirmed his intention to challenge the allegations through the judicial process while emphasizing the constitutional principle of presumed innocence.

“The charges before the Court are serious, and I remain firmly committed to defending myself through the due process of law. As with every accused person, I am entitled to the presumption of innocence until proven guilty by a competent court of law,” he said.

The latest development comes days after Andy Appiah-Kubi announced his intention to withdraw from the case, a move that has now been rejected by the court.

The criminal proceedings involving Akonta Mining continue as Wontumi's new legal team prepares to take charge of his defence.