Former Abuakwa South MP and lawyer Samuel Atta Akyea says he agreed to represent Ashanti Regional NPP Chairman Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, to ensure he was not left without legal representation at a crucial stage of his criminal case.

Speaking on Eyewitness News on Monday, June 15, Atta Akyea described the matter as sensitive, arguing that the criminal justice system is best served when an accused person has access to legal counsel throughout the proceedings.

He noted that legal representation becomes particularly important in the latter stages of a criminal trial, when lawyers are required to assess the evidence and file written submissions on behalf of their clients.

According to him, a well-argued written submission grounded in both evidence and law can be decisive in demonstrating that the prosecution has failed to establish its case beyond reasonable doubt and may even lead to an acquittal.

Atta Akyea said he learned from Wontumi that his previous lawyer, Andy Appiah-Kubi, intended to withdraw from the case.

He maintained that Appiah-Kubi was not removed by his client but had personally communicated his decision to step aside for reasons he considered appropriate.

According to Atta Akyea, Wontumi subsequently approached him to take over the defence. He said he was willing to do so but first sought confirmation that Appiah-Kubi had formally withdrawn from the matter.

He added that the prospect of Wontumi facing such an important stage of the case without legal representation was a major factor in his decision to accept the brief.

Chairman Wontumi recently announced Atta Akyea as his lead counsel in the ongoing criminal case involving Akonta Mining following Appiah-Kubi's withdrawal.