The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has declared former Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta a wanted fugitive.
The Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng, announced at a news conference on Wednesday in Accra that all indications pointed out that Mr Ofori-Atta might have left the country in an attempt not to present himself to investigations over alleged corruption.
“OSP declares Kenneth Nana Yaw Ofori Attah a wanted fugitive, Mr Ofori Atta, you have two choices, you can return to the jurisdiction voluntarily or face the consequences,” Mr Agyebeng said.
Following the reactions to the declaration of Special Prosecutor since the announcement was made, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has defended its decision, stating that his failure to honour multiple invitations showed a lack of seriousness regarding the ongoing investigation.
Speaking in an interview on Channel One TV on Thursday, February 12, 2025, the Director for Strategy, Research, and Communication at the OSP, Sammy Darko dismissed claims that the office was responsible for an alleged raid on Ofori-Atta’s residence.
He denied the allegations, stating that intelligence gathered by the OSP confirmed no involvement.
According to him, if the incident did occur, it was either staged or carried out by imposters, but not by the OSP.
Darko also questioned why Ofori-Atta had failed to appear before the OSP, insisting that his reasons for staying away were unconvincing.
“When a law enforcement agency needs you to appear, you are expected to do so unless you are bedridden or physically unable to travel,” Darko stated.
Meanwhile, the Majority in Parliament has apologised to former Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta, following a raid on his private residence by men in military and police uniforms on Tuesday, February 11, 2025.
Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Thursday, February 13, 2025, Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga described the incident as regrettable and unfortunate, assuring that the necessary steps had been taken to prevent a recurrence.
Ayariga revealed that investigations into the matter showed that the operation was led by Richard Jakpa, an official at the National Security Coordinator’s office.
He emphasised that the Mahama government remains committed to upholding the rights and liberties of all citizens.
GIK/APA