The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has officially re-declared former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta as a wanted person and a fugitive from justice. This decision comes after he failed to appear in person before the OSP on June 2, 2025, as previously instructed.
In response, the OSP has commenced processes to issue an INTERPOL Red Notice to facilitate Mr. Ofori-Atta’s extradition to Ghana.
Background to the Case
Mr. Ofori-Atta has been under investigation for his alleged involvement in major corruption cases, notably the National Cathedral project and the revenue assurance deal with Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Ltd (SML). The OSP has repeatedly summoned him to assist in the ongoing investigations, with emphasis placed on his personal appearance for a formal cautioned statement.
Despite prior arrangements, Mr. Ofori-Atta did not present himself, with his legal team citing health challenges and his unavailability in the country due to ongoing medical procedures abroad. They proposed that the interview be held virtually under the Electronic Transactions Act, but the OSP rejected the offer.
Special Prosecutor Reacts
The Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng, described Mr. Ofori-Atta’s actions as obstructive and a breach of lawful procedures. He stressed that the former minister’s persistent absence undermines the authority of the OSP and hampers the administration of justice.
As a result, Mr. Ofori-Atta’s name has been re-listed as a wanted individual and a fugitive from justice, setting the stage for further legal actions.
INTERPOL Red Notice and Extradition Steps
The OSP has formally triggered the process to issue an INTERPOL Red Notice — an international alert used to locate and provisionally arrest a person pending extradition. This alert will allow law enforcement agencies in member countries to assist in securing Mr. Ofori-Atta’s return to Ghana for prosecution.
Additionally, extradition proceedings are being initiated through appropriate diplomatic and legal channels to ensure he is brought back to face justice.
Legal Challenge and Next Steps
Mr. Ofori-Atta’s lawyers have challenged the OSP’s declaration in the Human Rights Division of the Accra High Court, describing it as unlawful. The court is expected to rule on the matter on June 18, 2025.
Meanwhile, the OSP remains resolute in pursuing criminal charges against Mr. Ofori-Atta, either in person or in absentia, depending on the outcome of the extradition request and court ruling.
This development signals a significant step in Ghana’s anti-corruption drive and the resolve of the OSP to enforce accountability at all levels of public service.