By Enoch 
No More A Wanted Man
In a significant development, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has removed former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta from its wanted list.
Table of Contents
This decision follows a communication from Ofori-Atta’s legal team, confirming his scheduled return to Ghana in May 2025. Ofori-Atta had been declared wanted over allegations of corruption and corruption-related offences, including the release of state funds for the construction of the National Cathedral project and other contracts.
Background
The OSP declared Ofori-Atta wanted on February 12, 2025, citing his failure to honor an in-person invitation to the office. Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng described Ofori-Atta’s absence as an attempt to evade investigations into alleged corruption.
Nana Kwame Bediako (Cheddar): Profile, Campaign Promises and His 12-Pillar Plan for Ghana
The former minister was accused of causing financial loss to the state in several high-profile cases, including the controversial National Cathedral project, the ambulance spare parts deal, the GRA-SML contract, and the termination of a distribution loss reduction and network improvement project contract between ECG and Beijing Technology.
Dr. Stephen Opuni Attributes Legal Victory to Divine Intervention as State Drops All Charges
Legal Communication and Return Date
On February 18, 2025, Ofori-Atta’s legal team transmitted a communication to the OSP, providing a definite date for his return to Ghana. The OSP deemed this date reasonable under the circumstances and rescheduled Ofori-Atta’s attendance accordingly. This marks a major shift from Ken Ofori-Atta’s previous intention of remaining outside the jurisdiction indefinitely.
OSP’s Response
In response to the communication, the OSP issued a press statement confirming Ofori-Atta’s removal from the wanted list. The statement emphasized that Former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta is no longer considered a fugitive from justice, pending his voluntary return to the jurisdiction on the agreed date.
Mahama Mandates Ministers to Declare Assets for Transparency
However, the OSP warned that if Former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta fails to return as promised or misses his scheduled meeting, his name will be reinstated on the wanted list, and legal action will be taken to secure his return.
Ongoing Investigations
Despite his removal from the wanted list, Ken Ofori-Atta remains under investigation for the alleged corruption and corruption-related offences. The OSP has reaffirmed its commitment to accountability and due process, stating that all actions will be guided by fairness and transparency. The former minister is expected to face questioning upon his return to Ghana.
Public Reaction
The decision to remove Ofori-Atta from the wanted list has sparked mixed reactions from the public. Supporters of the former minister have welcomed the development, viewing it as a step towards resolving the ongoing legal issues. Critics, however, have expressed concerns about the potential for further delays and the impact on the integrity of the investigation.
The Path Forward
As the investigations continue, Ofori-Atta’s return to Ghana will be closely watched by both supporters and critics. The former minister’s cooperation with the OSP’s inquiry will be crucial in determining the outcome of the investigations. Transparency and accountability will be key factors in ensuring that justice is served and that public trust in the legal process is maintained.
Nana Kwame Bediako (Cheddar): Profile, Campaign Promises and His 12-Pillar Plan for Ghana
The OSP has emphasized its commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their status or position, are held accountable for their actions. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for how corruption allegations are handled in Ghana and reinforce the importance of due process.
Crucial Months Ahead
The removal of Ken Ofori-Atta from the OSP’s wanted list marks a significant development in the ongoing investigation into his alleged corruption and corruption-related offences. As the former minister prepares to return to Ghana, the OSP remains committed to ensuring accountability and transparency in its proceedings.
The coming months will be crucial in determining the outcome of the investigations and the future legal actions against Former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta. The public will be watching closely to see how the case unfolds and whether justice will be served.
