The Chief Executive Officer of the Centre for Citizenship, Constitutional and Electoral Systems (CenCES), Mr. James Kwabena Bomfeh, has criticised the arrest of Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), describing the move as “needless and avoidable.”
Speaking on Newsfile on Saturday, May 31, Mr. Bomfeh questioned both the necessity and conduct of EOCO’s actions, especially when compared to the more civil and procedural approach previously adopted by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID).
“For me, this is needless and avoidable,” Mr. Bomfeh asserted. “The CID invited Wontumi and they are investigating him for alleged wrongdoing. He complied and appeared with his lawyers. Could EOCO not have done the same?”
His comments followed the arrest of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Ashanti Regional Chairman by EOCO officials, shortly after he had exited the CID headquarters in Accra.
Criticising the justification offered by the Deputy Attorney-General, Mr. Bomfeh questioned the timing of EOCO’s actions, especially in light of claims that Wontumi is under investigation for serious offences.
“We are now told by the Deputy AG, in justification for Wontumi – or a citizen – being detained, that he is being investigated for high crimes. If that is the case, how long has EOCO been waiting?” he asked.
Mr. Bomfeh further suggested that political undercurrents may be influencing the conduct of the country’s security and investigative institutions.
“It raises questions about who advises or supports our security agencies. Are they politically exposed persons?” he queried.
He concluded by alleging that the motives behind Wontumi’s arrest appeared personal and vindictive.
“The handwriting is clear – it’s about vengeance, bitterness, vendetta,” he said.
Credit: Emmanuel Tetteh
