Bernard Antwi Boasiako, better known by his nickname Chairman Wontumi, is one of Ghana’s most flamboyant and controversial public figures.
He is a politician, businessman, media entrepreneur, and gold mining magnate. His influence is especially pronounced in the Ashanti Region, where he serves as the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
In this biography, we will examine his early life, education, business ventures, political journey, controversies, personal life, and the legacy he is building.
Bio Data
- Full Name: Bernard Antwi Boasiako
- Stage Name: Chairman Wontumi
- Born: May 1, 1976
- Age: 49 years (as of 2025)
- Birthplace: Kumasi, Ashanti Region, Ghana
- Nationality: Ghanaian
- Occupation: Politician, Businessman, Media Owner
- Religion: Christianity
- Spouse: Michylina Antwi Boasiako (one of two wives)
- Children: Yes (names not publicly known)
- Net Worth: Estimated between US $100 million – US $500 million
Early Life & Background
- Chairman Wontumi was born on 1 May 1976 in the Ashanti Region (specifically Kumasi), Ghana.
- He has often spoken of modest beginnings; not much definitive public detail exists about his parents or childhood environment.
- He attended Prempeh College for his secondary education, completing in 1996.
- Some accounts say he studied security (in the UK) and theology (in the USA) to broaden his credentials.
Business Ventures & Wealth
Chairman Wontumi is widely known for leveraging business success as a foundation for his influence.
Mining & Natural Resources
- He is involved in the gold mining sector, particularly in Obuasi and other parts of Ghana.
- He has been linked with companies like Akonta Mining and HANSOL Mining.
- At times, he claimed his mining operations could generate nearly US$1 million daily.
Real Estate & Properties
- Wontumi boasts ownership of many houses in Kumasi and beyond, with some sources claiming “about 100” houses in Kumasi alone.
- He reportedly built a 25-bedroom house at age 22 — a frequent anecdote used to underscore his early success.
Media & Communications
- He is the CEO of Wontumi Media & Group of Communications, which runs Wontumi Radio and Movement TV.
- These media platforms often broadcast in Twi and are considered pro-NPP outlets in Ghana.
Other Ventures
- His business interests extend to importation, security, farming, and others in varying accounts.
- He has declared publicly that he speaks an English “that brings money,” pushing back against critics of his language skills.
Net Worth
Estimates of his net worth vary widely and should be treated cautiously. Some sources peg it between US$500 million to US$10 billion. Others estimate more modest sums (e.g. ~US$100 million) based on verifiable assets.
Political Journey & Influence
Entry into Politics
- Wontumi’s early political involvement was at the Bosomtwe constituency level, prior to rising to regional influence.
- In 2014, he was elected Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NPP. He has since retained that role through further internal elections (e.g. 2018, 2022).
- In his 2022 re-election, he won by a margin (464 votes vs 306) over challenger Odeneho Kwaku Appiah.
Political Style & Public Persona
He is known for bold, outspoken, often controversial statements. His style is unapologetic and confrontational, earning both praise and criticism. His nickname “Wontumi” in Twi loosely means “they cannot,” conveying defiance. He has used his media platforms to amplify NPP messaging, extending his reach beyond party politics.
Controversies & Legal Issues
- Wontumi has been eyed by law enforcement over illegal mining, with allegations of mining inside protected forest reserves beyond his license.
- In 2025, he was arrested by EOCO (Economic and Organized Crime Office) concerning allegations of fraud, money laundering, and suspected financial losses to the state.
- He is also subject to asset recovery proceedings to prevent alleged dissipation of illicit gains.
- Past controversies include defamation suits (e.g. with a former minister) and conflicts with political opponents or traditional authorities.
Personal Life & Family
- Wontumi is married to Michylina Antwi Bosiako. He is reported to have two wives in total.
- He has children, though details of their names and public roles are limited.
- His younger brother is a Catholic priest, a fact Wontumi himself has referenced in explaining why he chose a public life instead of the clergy.
Public Image & Legacy
Chairman Wontumi is a polarizing figure. To some, he’s a self-made success story: bold, generous, resourceful. To others, he is a symbol of excess, crass politics, and questionable ethics. His legacy is still in formation, but a few things stand out:
- A brand of grassroots mobilization, particularly in Ashanti,
- The use of media as a direct tool in politics,
- The intertwining of business, influence, and public service in Ghanaian political culture.
FAQs
Q1. Who is Chairman Wontumi?
Chairman Wontumi is the widely known name of Bernard Antwi Boasiako, a Ghanaian politician, businessman, media entrepreneur, and gold miner. He is the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
Q2. When and where was he born?
He was born on 1 May 1976 in Kumasi, within Ghana’s Ashanti Region.
Q3. What is his educational background?
He attended Prempeh College, completing in 1996. Beyond that, there are claims he pursued security studies in the UK and theology in the US.
Q4. What businesses does he own?
His ventures include gold mining (in Obuasi and other locations), real estate (many houses), and media (Wontumi Radio, Movement TV).
Q5. What controversies has he been involved in?
He faces legal scrutiny over illegal mining, fraud, and money laundering allegations. He also has been involved in defamation suits and political confrontations.
Q6. How many wives does he have?
Public reports suggest he has two wives, with Michylina Antwi Bosiako named as one.
Q7. What is his net worth?
Estimates vary drastically; some claim up to US$500 million to US$10 billion, though more conservative figures exist.
Conclusion
Chairman Wontumi is a compelling encapsulation of modern Ghanaian politics—where entrepreneurship, influence, and public image converge. From humble roots to commanding media and mining empires, his journey is marked by boldness, controversy, and ambition. Love him or criticize him, he remains a key player in Ghana’s political and economic landscape. Only time will tell what lasting legacy he leaves behind for Ghana’s next generation.
Leave a Reply