Wontumi FM Journalist Granted 100K Bail After Two-Week Custody

Emmanuel Kwakye Asare, a journalist with Kumasi-based Wontumi FM, has been granted bail by the Accra Circuit Court after spending two weeks in police custody. Asare was arrested on August 12, 2025, and charged with one count of offensive conduct related to the publication of alleged false news intended to incite fear and panic.

The court, presided over by Judge Samuel Bright Acquah, granted Asare bail in the sum of GH₵100,000 with two sureties, both of whom must be civil servants. Asare’s legal team is currently working to finalize the bail conditions.

Background of the Case

The journalist’s arrest stemmed from allegations he made on his program, suggesting that President John Dramani Mahama had prior knowledge of the August 6, 2025, helicopter crash that claimed eight lives. The prosecution opposed bail, citing ongoing investigations. However, Judge Acquah ruled that while he had no reason to deny bail, he was guided by judicial precedent, referencing a similar case involving a young man who was remanded for insulting then-President Akufo-Addo.

Next Steps

Asare is expected to reappear in court on September 1, 2025, as the case continues. His legal team is working diligently to complete the necessary processes to finalize the bail conditions