KEY POINTS
- The OSP has declared Kenneth Ofori-Atta a fugitive from justice.
- He is under investigation for multiple financial corruption cases.
- His legal team argues the move is politically motivated.
After Kenneth Nana Yaw Ofori-Atta, the former finance minister, did not show up for interrogation in several corruption-related investigations, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) issued a wanted notice for him.
OSP declares Kenneth Ofori-Atta a fugitive from justice
Ofori-Atta was listed as a fugitive from justice by the OSP in a statement posted on February 17, 2025, on its social media accounts, including Facebook and X. He may be living in the United States or the United Kingdom, according to authorities.
Alleged financial irregularities involving the Strategic Mobilization Limited-GRA contract, the ECG-BXC contract termination, National Cathedral payments, the ambulance procurement contract, and the use of the Tax Refund Account are the subject of the former minister’s probe.
Legal team and opposition claim OSP’s actions are political
According to Joy news, reactions to the OSP’s announcement have been conflicting. Advocates contend that it guarantees public officials are held accountable and shows Ghana’s dedication to transparency and accountability. Critics, however, assert that the action is politically motivated, especially in light of the fact that security personnel allegedly raided Ofori-Atta’s Accra home in order to arrest him.
New Patriotic Party (NPP) members claim that Ofori-Atta is being unfairly singled out and insist that due process be followed. His legal team claims that the warrant is an effort to defame him and has described the OSP’s actions as a “witch hunt.” Additionally, they disclosed that Ofori-Atta is currently traveling overseas for medical care, which they say was disclosed to the OSP in answer to a previous summons.
In the meantime, the OSP has urged anyone with knowledge about Ofori-Atta’s location to come forward. Hotlines and email addresses for information pointing to his whereabouts have been made available by the office.
