Emmanuel Kwakye Asare, a radio presenter with Wontumi FM in Kumasi, has been released on bail after spending two weeks in police custody over allegations of spreading false news.
Asare was arrested on August 12, 2025, and charged with offensive conduct for allegedly publishing claims that President John Dramani Mahama had prior knowledge of the August 6 helicopter crash that claimed eight lives.
The prosecution argued that the statement was intended to cause fear and panic among the public.
During a court hearing, the presiding judge, Samuel Bright Acquah, granted bail in the amount of GH₵100,000. The bail conditions require two sureties, both of whom must be civil servants.
Asare’s legal team is currently working to complete the necessary formalities to secure his release.
The prosecution initially opposed bail, pointing to the sensitive nature of the case and ongoing investigations.
But the judge ruled that there was no sufficient reason to keep the journalist in custody, referencing a past case in which an individual was held for making insulting comments about a former president.
Asare is expected to appear in court again on September 1, 2025, as the case continues.
Speaking briefly outside the courtroom, one of his lawyers said, “We’re relieved by the court’s decision and hopeful for a fair trial moving forward”.
