Former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta is locked in a legal battle with the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) over allegations of corruption and financial misconduct. The OSP has issued a stern warning that Ofori-Atta will be re-listed as a wanted person if he fails to appear for questioning on June 2, 2025.
The controversy intensified after Ofori-Atta filed a lawsuit challenging the OSP’s earlier declaration that he was a fugitive from justice. The OSP responded, clarifying that it had initially removed his name from its wanted list in good faith, based on his request and an assurance that he would make himself available for questioning.
OSP’s Warning and Legal Threats In its latest statement, the OSP emphasized that Ofori-Atta is “mandatorily required” to appear in person on the scheduled date. It warned that if he fails to do so, he will be re-listed as a wanted person, and efforts will be made to issue an Interpol Red Notice and initiate extradition proceedings in any jurisdiction where he may be found.
“If Mr. Ofori-Atta fails to attend the OSP on the scheduled date, he shall be re-entered on the OSP’s list of wanted persons and the OSP shall consider him a fugitive from justice,” the statement read.
The OSP reiterated its commitment to ensuring accountability, adding, “The OSP remains unwavering in its commitment to enforcing the law and ensuring that Mr. Ofori-Atta answers for his role as the prime suspect in five ongoing corruption and corruption-related investigations.”
Ofori-Atta’s Legal Counterattack In response, Ofori-Atta has taken legal action, seeking an injunction to prevent the OSP from re-declaring him wanted. His lawsuit argues that the OSP’s actions are baseless and unjustified, contending that they have caused severe damage to his reputation and personal life. He maintains that he has cooperated fully with the investigation through his legal representatives and sees the OSP’s move as an act of persecution.
Ofori-Atta’s legal team asserts that their client has not evaded justice and that the OSP’s threats violate due process. “Our client has made himself available through his lawyers and remains ready to cooperate within the bounds of the law,” a statement from his legal counsel read.
Political and Public Reactions The ongoing legal confrontation has sparked widespread debate, with political analysts and civil society groups weighing in. While some view the OSP’s actions as a necessary step in the fight against corruption, others argue that the office may be overstepping its authority.
The case has also drawn attention from Ghana’s diplomatic and business communities, as Ofori-Atta remains a key figure in the nation’s economic and financial circles. Many are watching closely to see how the courts will rule on the matter, as its outcome could have significant implications for high-profile corruption investigations in Ghana.
What’s Next? As the June 2 deadline approaches, all eyes remain on whether Ofori-Atta will honor the OSP’s summons or if his legal maneuvering will succeed in halting the process. The case promises to be a major test of Ghana’s legal and anti-corruption institutions, with potential long-term consequences for governance and accountability in the country.
