A recent New Patriotic Party (NPP) National Executive Council meeting has sparked controversy following reports that Bryan Acheampong, MP for Abetifi, publicly told Chairman Wontumi, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the party, to “sit down and shut up” — reminding him that he had bailed him out in a previous legal battle with EOCO.
⚠️ Alleged Outburst Over Council Discussions
Speaking in an interview on Movement TV, the Bono East Regional Secretary and NPP Executive Council member recounted the dramatic moment that occurred on July 15, 2025, during discussions surrounding a public statement by former President John Agyekum Kufuor. The former president had expressed dissatisfaction with the party’s treatment of him in recent years.
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According to the regional secretary, while Bryan Acheampong urged the council to reflect on Kufuor’s concerns, Chairman Wontumi (real name Bernard Antwi Boasiako) tried to interject to discuss President Nana Akufo-Addo’s denial of reports that he was attempting to postpone the upcoming NPP delegates’ conference scheduled for July 19, 2025.
That’s when, allegedly, Acheampong snapped, stating:
“Sit down and shut up. I bailed you.”
🤝 Bail Controversy with EOCO
This statement references a past incident involving Wontumi’s legal issues with EOCO, where he was reportedly held over allegations of fraud, money laundering, and causing financial loss to the state.
Bryan Acheampong is said to have played a key role in fulfilling the GH₵50 million bail conditions, including providing two justified sureties and using personal properties to secure Wontumi’s release.
🔁 Internal Party Friction
The Bono East NPP Secretary admitted the remark may have been made in jest, but cautioned that if it was serious, it reflected poor judgment:
“Even if it was a joke, it wasn’t in good taste. If your brother is in trouble and you help him, it shouldn’t be used to humiliate him later. That doesn’t make him your slave.”
He further noted:
“Chairman Wontumi’s legal troubles could have been resolved without external help, but the law took its course. Using it against him in a public setting is regrettable.”
🚨 Political Tensions Ahead of Delegates’ Conference
This incident comes at a time of heightened tension within the NPP, especially with upcoming primaries and internal elections. Bryan Acheampong, seen as a flagbearer hopeful, has been expanding his influence, while Wontumi remains a key grassroots mobiliser in the party’s Ashanti stronghold.
The party’s unity will be closely watched as it heads toward the July 19 conference, especially with high-profile personalities clashing over sensitive issues.
source: Ghanaweb
