The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has strongly rebuked Professor Ransford Gyampo, Acting CEO of the Ghana Shippers Authority, over what it describes as unwarranted attempts to interfere in its investigation into Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML).
According to the OSP, Prof. Gyampo made phone calls and sent text messages to its office during a high-profile raid on SML’s premises carried out in collaboration with the National Security Secretariat. The raid targeted SML’s Osu and Tema offices as part of a broader probe into questionable contracts awarded under the previous administration.
The OSP’s reaction follows public comments by Prof. Gyampo questioning the impartiality of the Special Prosecutor, Mr. Kissi Agyebeng, in the ongoing investigation involving former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta. Gyampo had warned the OSP not to allow personal vendettas or political pressure to cloud its judgement.
In a firm statement, the OSP criticised Gyampo’s conduct as inappropriate and cautioned all public officials against any form of interference—direct or indirect—during active investigations.
“Any attempt to meddle in the work of the OSP, whether through backdoor communications or public commentary meant to cast doubt on our motives, is unacceptable and undermines the fight against corruption,” the statement read.
Background to the SML Scandal
The controversy surrounding Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited erupted after it was revealed that the company had received over GH¢1.06 billion under a revenue assurance contract with the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA). Initially contracted to monitor downstream petroleum activities, SML’s scope was later expanded—without parliamentary approval—to include upstream petroleum and mining sectors, ballooning the projected cost to GH¢5.17 billion over five years.
A 2024 audit conducted by KPMG, commissioned by President Akufo-Addo, uncovered significant breaches of procurement and regulatory processes. The report highlighted the absence of Public Procurement Authority clearance and parliamentary oversight, sparking widespread public outcry.
Former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta has since been declared a wanted suspect by the OSP in connection with the SML case and other high-profile corruption investigations. The OSP has reiterated its intent to pursue all legal avenues to ensure accountability.
Growing Tensions
The Gyampo-OSP standoff marks a new chapter in the unfolding scandal and reflects rising tensions between anti-graft institutions and political actors. The OSP insists its mandate must remain insulated from partisan pressure, while critics warn against selective investigations.
For now, the message from the Special Prosecutor is clear: interference will not be tolerated—no matter who attempts it.
