OSP Issues Wanted Notice for Ex-Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta

The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) in Ghana has issued a wanted notice for former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, declaring him a fugitive from justice. The OSP has accused Ofori-Atta of corruption and corruption-related offenses in several high-profile cases, including the Strategic Mobilization-GRA Contract, Termination of the ECG-GXC contract, National Cathedral Payments, Ambulance Procurement Contract, and Tax Refund Account Utilization.

The OSP released a poster with Ofori-Atta’s details, including his age, gender, eye color, hair color, complexion, and potential locations (United Kingdom and United States of America). The poster states that Ofori-Atta has been declared a fugitive from justice due to his repeated refusal to honor invitations for questioning regarding ongoing investigations.

Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng, during a press conference on February 12, 2025, stated that Ofori-Atta has been uncooperative and has not responded to multiple invitations from the OSP for questioning. Agyebeng emphasized that the OSP is committed to ensuring that all individuals involved in corruption cases are held accountable.

The OSP has dismissed claims that Ofori-Atta is receiving medical treatment in the United States, insisting that he must return to Ghana to face questioning. Agyebeng stated, “We have no evidence to support the medical treatment claims, and we urge him to return to Ghana immediately to clear his name.”

The OSP’s actions have not been without controversy. Legal practitioners like Kwame Adofo and Dr. Kwaku Ansah Asare have criticized the office, arguing that it has no legal basis to declare someone a fugitive without formal charges. Dr. Asare stated, “The OSP’s actions are unlawful and violate the principles of due process. There must be a court warrant for such declarations.”

The declaration has divided public opinion. Some citizens support the OSP’s move, seeing it as a step towards fighting corruption. Others, however, condemn the action as politically motivated.

On February 12, 2025, Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng held a press conference to announce the wanted notice. He detailed the various corruption allegations against Ofori-Atta and emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in government.

Ken Ofori-Atta served as Finance Minister from January 2017 to February 2024 under the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government. His tenure was marked by significant economic reforms and infrastructure projects, but it also faced allegations of corruption.

President John Mahama, who took office in January 2025, established Operation Recover All Loot to investigate corruption allegations. The committee has received over 200 complaints, amounting to more than $20 billion in recoverable funds. The initiative aims to restore public trust and recover funds misappropriated during previous administrations.

As the situation continues to unfold, the government and the public await further developments, with many hoping for a resolution that upholds the principles of justice and accountability.