- Wontumi FM presenter Akyenkwaa Nana Kofi Asare has been granted bail after spending two weeks in custody over comments linking President John Mahama to a deadly helicopter crash.
- The court granted bail at GH¢100,000 with two civil servant sureties.
- Asare is charged with publishing alleged false news intended to cause fear and panic.
- He is expected to reappear in court on September 1, 2025, as investigations continue.
Controversial radio presenter Akyenkwaa Nana Kofi Asare has been granted bail after spending two weeks behind bars over explosive comments made on air.
The Wontumi FM host, whose real name is Emmanuel Kwakye Asare, was arrested on August 12 following a broadcast in which he allegedly linked President John Dramani Mahama to the tragic Z-9 helicopter crash that claimed eight lives, including two cabinet ministers. The incident, which occurred on August 6, sent shockwaves across the country and sparked intense public scrutiny.
Charged with offensive conduct and the publication of alleged false news intended to cause fear and panic, Asare’s bail application was initially opposed by prosecutors. But Presiding Judge Samuel Bright Acquah ruled that there was no legal basis to keep him in custody, citing judicial precedent involving similar speech-related cases.
The court granted bail in the sum of GH¢100,000, with two sureties required — both of whom must be civil servants. Asare’s legal team is currently finalizing the bail process, and he is expected to reappear in court on September 1.
The case has reignited debate over the boundaries of free speech in Ghana, especially when it intersects with national security and high-profile tragedies. Supporters of Asare argue that his arrest reflects a broader crackdown on dissent, while critics say media figures must be held accountable for reckless commentary.
As the legal battle unfolds, all eyes will be on the next hearing — and on how Ghana’s courts continue to navigate the tension between expression and responsibility.
