By Enoch 
In a recent turn of events, former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta has been declared a fugitive by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP). This controversial decision has reportedly left Ofori-Atta traumatized, as he undergoes medical treatment abroad. The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has condemned the OSP’s actions, describing them as unjustified and damaging to Ghana’s reputation.
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OSP Declares Ken Ofori-Atta a Fugitive
On February 11, 2025, the OSP officially labeled Ken Ofori-Atta a fugitive, citing his failure to appear before the office for questioning over suspected corruption-related offences. The OSP directed Ofori-Atta to appear on February 10, 2025, but his lawyers informed the OSP of his medical condition and provided documentation from the Mayo Clinic confirming his treatment abroad. Despite this, the OSP proceeded to declare him a fugitive.
NPP Criticizes OSP’s Decision
The NPP has strongly criticized the OSP’s decision, with National Organiser Henry Nana Boakye describing it as a fundamental legal error. Boakye argued that Ofori-Atta could not be considered a fugitive while his lawyers were in active communication with the OSP. He also cited a statement from former Ghana School of Law Director Ansah Asare, who described the OSP’s decision as “barbaric, uncouth, uncivilised, and unethical”.
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Ofori-Atta’s Medical Leave and OSP’s Response
Ofori-Atta had informed the government of his medical trip to the United States in a letter dated January 2, 2025, addressed to the then Chief of Staff, Frema Osei-Opare. A similar letter was sent to the new Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, on January 22, 2025, in which Ofori-Atta provided his contact details and expressed willingness to cooperate with any state inquiries. Despite this, the OSP directed Ofori-Atta to appear before the office on February 10, 20253.
OSP Raid on Ofori-Atta’s Residence
The NPP also criticized the OSP for a raid on Ofori-Atta’s residence on February 11, 2025. Boakye alleged that 12 armed men, including police officers, military personnel, and plain-clothed individuals, carried out the operation. He questioned the Special Prosecutor’s claim that the raid was staged and raised concerns about the intelligence gathered by the OSP.
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NPP Warns Against Political Harassment
The NPP warned against what it described as political harassment of its members. Boakye emphasized that while the party supports lawful investigations, it would not tolerate actions that it perceives as politically motivated.
He also raised concerns about the OSP’s public announcement that former National Petroleum Authority CEO Sheikh Mustapha Abdul-Hamid was under investigation, stating that Dr. Abdul-Hamid had not received any formal communication from the OSP.
Minority Leader’s Statement
Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin assured Parliament that Ofori-Atta is traumatized by the labels ascribed to him by the OSP. Afenyo-Markin provided an update on Ofori-Atta’s current situation, explaining that the former Minister is undergoing a special medical procedure abroad. He assured Parliament that Ofori-Atta had left the country with proper permission and will return once his treatment is completed.
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Potiential Implications
The OSP’s decision to label Ken Ofori-Atta a fugitive has sparked significant controversy and raised questions about the legal and ethical implications of such actions. The NPP’s strong opposition to the OSP’s decision highlights the need for careful consideration and adherence to due process in handling high-profile cases. As Ofori-Atta continues his medical treatment, the situation remains fluid, with potential implications for Ghana’s political and legal landscape.
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