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The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has issued a stern ultimatum to former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta: appear in person at its headquarters by Monday, June 2, 2025, or face dire legal consequences.
In a statement released on Sunday, June 1, the OSP made it clear that failure to honour the summons will result in Ofori-Atta being reinstated on the list of wanted persons and officially declared a fugitive from justice. Additionally, the office said it would begin the process of issuing an INTERPOL Red Notice, potentially subjecting him to international arrest and extradition.
This warning comes amid ongoing investigations into serious allegations of corruption and abuse of office involving multiple high-profile contracts and government projects.
Investigations Involving Ofori-Atta:
- Petroleum and Minerals Revenue Assurance: Deals between Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Ltd and the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA).
- Electricity Company Contract: Termination of a deal between ECG and Beijing Xiao Cheng Technology (BXC).
- National Cathedral Project: Scrutiny over procurement and financial activities.
- Ambulance Procurement: A Ministry of Health contract involving 307 ambulances.
- GRA Tax P-Fund: Alleged irregularities in fund management and disbursement.
Timeline Summary:
- January–February 2025: Ofori-Atta was notified of his suspect status and initially declared a fugitive after failing to cooperate.
- February 18, 2025: His name was removed from the wanted list after assuring a return in May.
- March 2025: He filed a lawsuit challenging his previous designation as “wanted” and sought removal of related posts from OSP platforms.
- June 2, 2025: He is expected to report in person at the OSP office.
With the deadline looming, Ofori-Atta’s legal team has indicated he is unwell and has offered to participate virtually in the investigation. However, the OSP insists on a physical appearance, and failure to comply will trigger:
- Reinstatement on the wanted list,
- Declaration as a fugitive,
- Steps to initiate an INTERPOL Red Notice.
The outcome of this standoff could have far-reaching implications for both Ofori-Atta’s legal standing and the credibility of the OSP’s anti-corruption campaign.
