Ghana’s Parliament is showing signs of a firm stance against elite impunity, as Sissala West MP Mohammed Adams Sukparu publicly endorsed the arrest efforts against former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, describing the ongoing INTERPOL Red Notice campaign as a “historic step toward justice.”
Speaking on Channel One TV’s Breakfast Daily on June 3, Sukparu commended the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) for pursuing extradition through INTERPOL after Mr. Ofori-Atta repeatedly failed to honour criminal summons in five high-profile corruption probes.
“This is a different era — we now have a president who thinks about the country,” Sukparu asserted. “The OSP must use every available legal tool to ensure his return. This is a warning to those who hold public office.”
Parliamentarian Slams Culture of Impunity Under Akufo-Addo
Sukparu took direct aim at former President Nana Akufo-Addo, accusing him of enabling a political environment where accountability was absent.
“Nana Addo pampered Ken Ofori-Atta to the point of arrogance,” Sukparu charged. “He behaved like Ghana belonged to a select few. But things have changed.”
Ofori-Atta, who is officially listed on INTERPOL’s Red Notice database, faces the charge of “Using Public Office for Profit.” The Special Prosecutor is actively pursuing extradition, with multiple investigations underway.
Cases Under Investigation:
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Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Ltd. (SML) Deal – Over petroleum and minerals revenue tracking.
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Termination of BXC Contract – Between ECG and Chinese firm Beijing Xiao Cheng Technology.
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National Cathedral Project – Procurement irregularities and suspected financial mismanagement.
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Ambulance Procurement Scandal – Ministry of Health deal with Service Ghana Auto Group.
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GRA Tax P-Fund Mismanagement – Alleged misuse of statutory tax funds.
Timeline of Escalation:
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February 2025: Ofori-Atta is declared a suspect; he claims indefinite medical leave abroad.
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February 12, 2025: OSP designates him a fugitive after non-cooperation.
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February 18, 2025: Fugitive tag removed after he promises to return in May.
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March 2025: Ofori-Atta sues the OSP, seeking damages and the deletion of his fugitive status from public platforms.
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June 2, 2025: Fails to report again; OSP reissues arrest warrant and notifies INTERPOL.
A Test of Political Will
This case is quickly becoming a litmus test for Ghana’s justice system and its political leadership’s willingness to prosecute high-ranking figures.
Sukparu’s comments suggest growing parliamentary backing for the OSP’s independence — a shift from past eras where MPs were often protective of fellow elites.
“It’s not just about Ofori-Atta,” one anti-corruption analyst noted. “It’s about setting a precedent. If he’s held accountable, the rules of the game change.”
