An Accra High Court has told Bernard Antwi Boasiako, the Ashanti Regional Chairman for the New Patriotic Party, that he must now defend himself in an illegal mining case. He is also known as Chairman Wontumi.
Mr. Boasiako had asked the court to dismiss the case against him. This is called a no-case submission.
The court rejected this request. Justice Audrey Kokuvie Tay made the decision on Monday. This means the case will continue.
Mr. Boasiako is accused of illegal mining activities. He must now present evidence to show he is not guilty.
The court's order means the trial will proceed to the defence stage. This is a step towards resolving the allegations.