Show up on June 2 or be declared wanted -OSP to Ofori-Atta

Background of the standoff
In a strong statement from the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta has been given a firm ultimatum: if he does not show up for questioning on June 2, 2025, his name will be re-listed as a wanted person. This development follows a previous agreement where Ofori-Atta assured authorities he would cooperate fully with ongoing investigations into alleged corruption and financial misconduct. His removal from the OSP’s wanted list was granted in good faith, contingent on his commitment to appear before the authorities at a set time.

Conditional removal from wanted list
In its latest statement, the OSP clarified that Ofori-Atta’s removal from the wanted list was based on his promise to attend questioning on a specific date. The prosecuting body emphasized that this was not a permanent dismissal of the case, but rather a temporary gesture of trust, contingent on his compliance. With the June 2 deadline fast approaching, the OSP has reiterated that his attendance is “mandatorily required.” Failure to honor this commitment will have severe consequences, including his immediate re-listing as a fugitive from justice.

Potential legal repercussions for Ofori-Atta
Should Ofori-Atta fail to appear, the OSP has warned that it would take drastic measures, including issuing an Interpol Red Notice and pursuing extradition proceedings in any country where he may be located. This move would mark a significant escalation in the case, reinforcing the OSP’s determination to enforce accountability in corruption investigations.

The legal battle 
In response to the OSP’s stance, Ken Ofori-Atta has filed a lawsuit seeking to prevent the office from declaring him a wanted person again. His legal team contends that the OSP’s actions are without merit and constitute an unjust attack on his character. They argue that Ofori-Atta has been cooperating with investigators through his legal representatives, making any move to re-label him as a fugitive both unfair and damaging to his reputation.

The corruption allegations against Ofori-Atta
The ongoing legal proceedings stem from allegations of corruption and financial misconduct. Ofori-Atta is the prime suspect in five active investigations led by the OSP, which claim he was involved in serious financial mismanagement during his tenure as Finance Minister. These investigations have put a spotlight on his role in various financial dealings, and the OSP is determined to pursue justice in these matters.

The Special Prosecutor’s unyielding stance
Despite the legal challenge mounted by Ofori-Atta, the OSP remains resolute in its mission to hold public officials accountable for financial crimes. The office has reiterated its unwavering commitment to the pursuit of justice, particularly in cases of corruption that affect the nation’s financial integrity. For the OSP, the stakes are high, and there will be no room for leniency when it comes to ensuring that individuals in positions of power face the full force of the law.

Ofori-Atta’s personal struggles
Throughout the legal proceedings, Ofori-Atta has maintained that the actions of the OSP have caused significant harm to his personal and professional life. He claims that the ongoing public declarations about his status as a wanted person have severely tarnished his reputation. In his lawsuit, Ofori-Atta is asking the courts to prevent the Special Prosecutor from making further public statements about his legal standing until the resolution of all legal matters. His team asserts that such declarations are not only unjust but also damaging to his life and career.

The future of the Case
As the June 2 deadline approaches, all eyes are on the next steps in this high-profile case. The OSP has made it clear that it will not back down from its pursuit of justice, while Ofori-Atta’s legal team continues to fight for his innocence and reputation. The outcome of this legal battle could have lasting implications, not only for Ofori-Atta but for the broader fight against corruption in the country.

Read the OSP’s full press statement

Press Release- Ken Ofori-Atta