In a shocking turn of events, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has declared former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta a wanted fugitive. At a press conference held in Accra on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng announced that Mr. Ofori-Atta is wanted for allegedly absconding from Ghana to avoid investigations into multiple corruption allegations.
“OSP declares Kenneth Nana Yaw Ofori-Atta a wanted fugitive. Mr. Ofori-Atta, you have two choices—return to the jurisdiction voluntarily or face the consequences,” said Mr. Agyebeng during the press briefing.
Why is Ken Ofori-Atta Wanted?
The OSP’s declaration comes after several investigations linked the former Finance Minister to cases of alleged financial misconduct and corruption. Although details of the cases are still unfolding, here is a list of five ongoing investigations that reportedly pushed the OSP to take such drastic action:
Public Procurement Violations – Alleged irregularities in high-profile government procurement contracts.
Mismanagement of State Funds – Questions surrounding the use of public funds for personal gain.
Conflict of Interest – Accusations of improper dealings involving private companies connected to Mr. Ofori-Atta.
Unauthorized Financial Transactions – Allegations of unapproved transactions involving government funds.
The Alleged Ruse: A Staged Raid
In addition to declaring Mr. Ofori-Atta a fugitive, the Special Prosecutor also addressed circulating media reports about a supposed raid on the former minister’s residence on Tuesday, February 11, 2025. Contrary to these reports, Mr. Agyebeng stated that no such raid was conducted by the OSP.
He went on to allege that the raid was a “staged operation” orchestrated by Mr. Ofori-Atta himself to mislead the public and garner sympathy while tarnishing the image of the OSP. “This was nothing but a ruse,” Agyebeng asserted, urging the public to remain vigilant against misinformation.
What Happens Next?
The Special Prosecutor has given Ken Ofori-Atta two choices:
Return Voluntarily – Cooperate with the authorities and face due process.
Remain a Fugitive – Face the full force of the law, including potential extradition and additional legal consequences.
The implications of this case are significant, not just for Ken Ofori-Atta but for the political and legal landscape in Ghana. The OSP’s decision to declare a high-profile figure like the former Finance Minister a fugitive signals a bold step in Ghana’s ongoing fight against corruption.
Public Reactions
Reactions from the public and political analysts have been mixed. Some commend the OSP for taking a firm stance, while others question the timing and circumstances surrounding the declaration. As the story continues to unfold, the eyes of the nation will remain fixed on whether Mr. Ofori-Atta will heed the call to return or remain in hiding.
The declaration of Ken Ofori-Atta as a wanted fugitive raises critical questions about accountability, governance, and the rule of law in Ghana. This case will undoubtedly serve as a litmus test for the OSP’s mandate and Ghana’s broader anti-corruption efforts.
Stay tuned for updates as we continue to follow this developing story.
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