The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has officially declared former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta a wanted fugitive, citing his alleged involvement in multiple high-profile corruption investigations.
At a press conference on Wednesday, Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng detailed several cases under investigation, including:
- National Cathedral project
- Strategic Mobilization Limited (SML) contract with GRA
- Termination of ECG and Beijing Technology Limited contract
- Procurement of ambulances
- Payments from GRA’s tax refund account
OSP Questions Ofori-Atta’s Whereabouts
According to Mr. Agyebeng, Ofori-Atta’s lawyers claim he is seeking medical treatment abroad and is currently outside Ghana’s jurisdiction. However, the OSP has questioned the authenticity of the medical documents presented, describing them as “concocted.”
The Special Prosecutor has urged the former minister to return voluntarily or face extradition.
“Ladies and gentlemen of the media, the fugitive’s name is Kenneth Nana Yaw Ofori-Atta,” Mr. Agyebeng declared.
Details of Investigations
1. Strategic Mobilization Ghana Limited & GRA Contract
The OSP is examining the contract between Strategic Mobilization Ghana Limited (SML) and the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), which was intended to enhance revenue assurance in the petroleum and minerals sectors.
2. ECG and Beijing Technology Contract Termination
Investigators are looking into the controversial termination of a contract between the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and Beijing Technology Limited, which was aimed at reducing distribution losses and improving network efficiency.
3. National Cathedral Project
The OSP is probing procurement processes, contracts, payments, and financial management associated with the National Cathedral project, a major initiative that has faced repeated scrutiny over funding and transparency.
4. Procurement of Ambulances
Ofori-Atta is linked to investigations into a 307 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 305 CDI ambulance procurement deal involving the Ministry of Health and Service Ghana Auto Group Limited.
5. GRA’s Tax Refund Account
The OSP is investigating payments made from the Ghana Revenue Authority’s tax refund account, scrutinizing how these funds were utilized.
Next Steps
With the Special Prosecutor pushing for his return, Ofori-Atta faces the possibility of extradition if he does not voluntarily present himself for questioning. The unfolding situation has reignited debates about accountability and corruption in Ghana’s political landscape.
