Deputy Minister for the Interior, Ebenezer Okletey Terlabi, has defended the attempted arrest of Bernard Antwi Boasiako—popularly known as Chairman Wontumi—the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP). According to Terlabi, the operation was lawful and carried out in line with national security procedures.
In an interview on Citi FM’s Eyewitness News on Friday, May 23, Terlabi dismissed suggestions of political interference, stressing that the National Investigations Bureau (NIB) acted within its legal mandate.
“National Security does not take action without just cause. Their visit to Wontumi’s residence was based on legitimate grounds. It is important for all of us to allow security agencies to carry out their responsibilities in the interest of national peace,” he stated.
Responding to Wontumi’s claims that the operation was an attempt to harass or harm him, the Deputy Minister described such assertions as baseless and misleading.
“He is simply playing the victim. No one intended to harm Chairman Wontumi. The officers were there to invite him, not to attack. When dealing with a potentially difficult situation, one must be adequately prepared,” Terlabi added.
Chairman Wontumi had earlier accused the NIB and Ghana Police Service of storming his home in a politically motivated move meant to intimidate him. Speaking on Asempa FM and later addressing supporters, he blamed the administration of President John Dramani Mahama for orchestrating the incident.
“Ghanaians, rise! All NPP supporters must rise. This is happening to me because of President Mahama,” he declared.
The operation has sparked political controversy, with critics calling it an abuse of power, while others have urged patience and a thorough investigation. As of now, the NIB has not issued a formal statement outlining the reasons for its presence at Wontumi’s residence.
Source: CitiNewsroom
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