The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) in Ghana has refuted claims of receiving any medical report from former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, who is currently under investigation for corruption-related offenses. This comes after a purported medical report, dated May 14, 2025, and allegedly signed by doctors at the Mayo Clinic in the United States, surfaced in the media. The report detailed a diagnosis of prostate cancer for Mr. Ofori-Atta, outlining a scheduled surgery for June 13, 2025, and a subsequent recovery period before he could return to Ghana. The OSP, however, maintains that neither Mr. Ofori-Atta nor his legal representatives have provided any such documentation to the office. Instead, the only communication received was a letter from Mr. Ofori-Atta’s lawyers, simply stating a change in his medical condition without providing any supporting medical documentation.
The OSP expressed concern over the circulation of the purported medical report through media outlets rather than its formal submission to the investigating authority. This raises questions about the authenticity and intent behind the release of the document. The OSP emphasizes its role in the active investigation of Mr. Ofori-Atta and its responsibility in making decisions regarding his return to Ghana. The lack of official medical documentation submitted directly to the OSP casts doubt on claims of Mr. Ofori-Atta’s inability to travel due to his purported medical condition. The OSP’s statement underscores the importance of following proper legal procedures and providing verifiable evidence to support claims, especially in sensitive matters involving ongoing investigations.
The timing of the release of the purported medical report is particularly noteworthy, as it coincided with the OSP declaring Mr. Ofori-Atta a wanted fugitive on Monday, June 2, 2025. This declaration stemmed from Mr. Ofori-Atta’s failure to comply with the OSP’s directives related to the corruption investigation. The declaration intensifies the legal pressure on Mr. Ofori-Atta and raises concerns about his willingness to cooperate with the investigation. The release of the alleged medical report, shortly after being declared a fugitive, could be interpreted by some as a strategic move to delay or evade the legal process.
The lack of official medical documentation, coupled with the timing of its release, raises suspicions regarding the veracity of the reported medical condition and its potential use as a tactic to avoid cooperation with the OSP. The situation emphasizes the need for transparency and due process in legal proceedings. It is crucial for individuals under investigation to cooperate fully with authorities and provide any relevant information through established legal channels. Publicly disseminating information without proper verification and submission to the relevant authorities can undermine the integrity of the legal process and create confusion among the public.
The OSP’s insistence on receiving official medical documentation directly from Mr. Ofori-Atta or a recognized medical institution underscores its commitment to ensuring a fair and impartial investigation. Submitting official documentation through the appropriate legal channels allows for verification of its authenticity and prevents the spread of misinformation. The OSP’s firm stance highlights the importance of upholding legal procedures and maintaining the credibility of the investigative process. By demanding proper documentation, the OSP aims to prevent potential manipulations or delays in the pursuit of justice.
The ongoing situation involving Mr. Ofori-Atta and the OSP underscores the complexities of legal proceedings, particularly when sensitive information is shared through unofficial channels. The OSP’s unwavering commitment to following due process and demanding official documentation serves as a vital safeguard against potential abuse of the legal system. The focus remains on establishing the truth through verifiable evidence and ensuring a fair and transparent investigation into the corruption allegations against Mr. Ofori-Atta. The OSP’s actions demonstrate the importance of upholding the rule of law and maintaining public trust in the justice system.
