Lawyer Andy Appiah-Kubi has stepped down as counsel for New Patriotic Party (NPP) Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, in the criminal case involving Akonta Mining Limited.

Speaking to Citi News, Appiah-Kubi said his withdrawal was informed by concerns over the manner in which the case has been handled by the court.

He disclosed that he had formally filed a motion to withdraw from proceedings in Criminal Court 4, supported by an affidavit outlining his reasons.

According to him, his decision stems from disappointment with the court's conduct, records and approach to matters before it.

"I have withdrawn from the Akonta Mining case in Criminal Court 4 with stated reasons in the affidavit in support of my motion. My disappointment is in the attitude, record and the determination of the court so far in handling these matters before the court. I'm so totally disappointed, that's why I am withdrawing," he said.

Appiah-Kubi also dismissed claims linking his withdrawal to ongoing plea bargaining discussions involving Chairman Wontumi in the alleged EXIM Bank fraud case.

He stressed that the Akonta Mining prosecution and the EXIM Bank matter are separate cases and should not be treated as related issues.

The lawyer further clarified that he remains part of Chairman Wontumi's legal team in all other matters, including the EXIM Bank case, and that his withdrawal is limited solely to the Akonta Mining proceedings.