Tensions Rise at EOCO as NPP Supporters Demand Release of Chairman Wontumi
Unrest continues to grip the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) in Accra as members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) stand firm in their resolve to stay at the premises until the party’s Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi, is released from custody.
Following Wontumi’s arrest on Tuesday, May 27, shortly after he honored a CID invitation in connection with an ongoing investigation, a large number of party loyalists have gathered outside the EOCO headquarters to show their support.
The arrest of Chairman Wontumi has sparked outrage among senior party officials, who have accused the government of using state security agencies to target political adversaries.
Speaking to reporters at the scene, NPP Deputy General Secretary, Haruna Mohammed, expressed his dismay at the manner in which Wontumi was apprehended, raising concerns about whether due process was followed by EOCO.
Haruna Mohammed stated, “If EOCO wishes to invite him, they should adhere to the proper procedures by officially sending him a written invitation. I am unsure whether they took him from the CID premises with or without a warrant.”
He further added, “This government’s credibility is in question. They are attempting to use National Security to intimidate us. What exactly do they seek from former government officials?”
While emphasizing the party’s commitment to transparency and accountability, Mohammed stressed the importance of upholding legal protocols in all proceedings.
“We are a party that upholds the rule of law. We will not shy away from accountability, but it must be carried out in accordance with the law. We are here to support him [Wontumi], our chairman in the stronghold of the New Patriotic Party. If they intend to target him, they will have to deal with all of us,” he affirmed.
NPP National Youth Organiser, Salam Mustapha, joined the chorus of voices demanding clarity on Wontumi’s status and urged EOCO to provide transparent communication regarding the possibility of an overnight detention.
He stated, “If you intend to detain him overnight, inform us. Ask us to disperse and assemble at the designated time you specify.”
When questioned about the supporters’ response if EOCO decides to prolong Wontumi’s detention, Mustapha affirmed, “We will assess the reasons. If it pertains to a criminal issue, we will listen. However, if it is politically motivated, we will remain steadfast. We will not tolerate any form of political coercion.”
The standoff outside EOCO’s premises ensued in clashes between party supporters and law enforcement officers, with protesters banging on security vehicles arriving at the scene.
As of Tuesday evening, EOCO has not issued an official statement detailing the grounds for Chairman Wontumi’s arrest.
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