The High Court in Accra has adjourned the EXIM Bank case involving the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, to July 27 to allow ongoing plea negotiations between the prosecution and the defence.

The adjournment followed an appearance by both parties, who informed the court that discussions aimed at resolving the matter were still in progress.

Chairman Wontumi is facing charges over the alleged fraudulent acquisition of a GH¢14.3 million loan from EXIM Bank for a farming project.

According to the prosecution, between 2018 and 2022, Chairman Wontumi and Thomas Antwi-Boasiako allegedly obtained the facility under false pretences through Wontumi Farms Limited.

The prosecution further alleges that Chairman Wontumi submitted a forged receipt to officials of EXIM Bank to support an application for an additional GH¢4 million loan facility.

He is also accused of knowingly benefiting from proceeds allegedly obtained through fraudulent means, forming the basis of a money laundering charge.

Prosecutors further contend that the transactions caused financial loss of more than GH¢30 million to EXIM Bank.

Lawyers for the accused persons have requested plea negotiations, prompting discussions between both sides.

When the case was called on Monday, July 6, the prosecution informed the court that the negotiations had not yet been concluded.

The court subsequently adjourned proceedings to July 27 to allow the engagements to continue.