The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) in Ghana has escalated its investigation into alleged corruption against former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, declaring him wanted for his involvement in several high-profile cases. These include the contentious SML contract scandal, procurement breaches related to the stalled National Cathedral project, and two other undisclosed cases that are currently under investigation. The OSP, headed by Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng, accuses Ofori-Atta of deliberately evading investigation by citing medical treatment abroad as a reason for his unavailability. Agyebeng has dismissed this explanation, characterizing it as a calculated ruse designed to obstruct the ongoing investigation and avoid voluntary cooperation. The OSP has now publicly called for Ofori-Atta to surrender himself voluntarily or face the consequences of being forcibly brought back to Ghana to answer the charges against him.
The OSP’s declaration follows a series of attempts to secure Ofori-Atta’s cooperation in the investigations. According to the OSP, the former Finance Minister has consistently failed to honor multiple invitations, claiming to be indefinitely out of the country seeking medical attention. The OSP, however, maintains that their investigations have revealed that the purported medical reasons are a pretext to evade accountability. The OSP has further stated that the medical documentation provided by Ofori-Atta is intended to justify his non-appearance and obstruct the course of justice. This has led the OSP to conclude that Ofori-Atta is actively avoiding cooperation and is now considered a fugitive from justice.
Adding to the complexity of the situation is a purported raid on Ofori-Atta’s residence, which the OSP has vehemently denied having any involvement in. Agyebeng has dismissed reports of the raid, labeling it a staged event orchestrated by the former Finance Minister himself. The OSP alleges that this alleged raid was a deliberate attempt to discredit the ongoing investigation and garner public sympathy. This tactic, according to the OSP, is part of a broader strategy to undermine their efforts and cast doubt on the legitimacy of the corruption allegations against Ofori-Atta.
The OSP has underscored its commitment to uncovering the truth behind the allegations of corruption against Ofori-Atta and other former government officials. The investigation into the former Finance Minister forms part of a broader effort by the OSP to tackle corruption within the government. The SML contract scandal and the National Cathedral project have been the subject of significant public scrutiny, with allegations of mismanagement and misappropriation of funds. The OSP’s pursuit of Ofori-Atta signals a determination to hold high-ranking officials accountable for their actions and to ensure transparency in the management of public resources.
The OSP’s declaration that Ofori-Atta is wanted represents a significant escalation in the ongoing investigation. The public call for his surrender and the dismissal of his medical excuse as a ruse underscore the seriousness of the allegations against him. The OSP’s assertion that the purported raid on his residence was a staged event further complicates the narrative and raises questions about the lengths to which Ofori-Atta may be willing to go to avoid scrutiny. The unfolding events have captivated public attention and placed immense pressure on the former Finance Minister to address the allegations against him.
The coming days and weeks will be crucial in determining the next steps in this high-profile investigation. Whether Ofori-Atta will heed the OSP’s call to surrender voluntarily or choose to continue evading authorities remains to be seen. The OSP’s determination to pursue the case, despite alleged attempts to obstruct their investigation, signifies a commitment to upholding the rule of law and holding those in power accountable. The outcome of this case will undoubtedly have significant implications for the fight against corruption in Ghana and send a strong message about the consequences of abusing public trust. The Ghanaian public awaits further developments with bated breath as the drama continues to unfold.
