
A Kumasi-based journalist with Wontumi FM, Emmanuel Kwakye Asare, has been granted bail after spending two weeks in police custody.
Asare, arrested on August 12, 2025, was charged with one count of offensive conduct over the alleged publication of false news intended to cause fear and panic. He reportedly claimed on air that former President John Dramani Mahama had prior knowledge of the August 6 helicopter crash that killed eight people.
The court granted him bail set at GH₵100,000 with two sureties, both of whom must be civil servants. His lawyers are currently working to meet the bail conditions.
Although the prosecution opposed bail, citing ongoing investigations, Presiding Judge Samuel Bright Acquah ruled in favor, referencing judicial precedent. He recalled a similar case where a man was remanded for insulting then-President Akufo-Addo but noted no legal grounds existed to continue holding Asare.
The journalist is expected to reappear before the court on September 1, 2025, as the case proceeds.
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