Tensions continue to rise between the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) and Prof Ransford Gyampo, following public concerns raised about the nature and intent behind the ongoing investigation into former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta.
In a Facebook post dated June 22, the OSP firmly denied suggestions that its investigation is driven by personal grudges. The Office described remarks by Prof Gyampo, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Shippers’ Authority, as both “misleading” and damaging to its institutional credibility.
According to the OSP, its inquiry is solely based on “allegations of corruption and corruption-related offences,” particularly focusing on the award of a multi-year contract to Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML). The Office emphasized that its actions are legally grounded and free of personal bias.
The OSP also revealed that Prof Gyampo contacted the Office during a lawful search of SML’s premises conducted by officers from the OSP and National Security. While the Office stopped short of accusing him of interference, it noted the timing and tone of his outreach raised eyebrows. Public officials, it warned, should avoid actions that might compromise ongoing investigations.
“Such behaviour, whether intentional or not, risks undermining the national fight against corruption,” the OSP stated.
Prof Gyampo had earlier voiced concern on TV3’s Keypoints programme, questioning the motive behind the OSP’s aggressive posture in the case. “I hope the OSP is not motivated by vendetta,” he said, stressing the importance of impartiality in such high-profile probes.
His concerns echo sentiments shared by several legal commentators and members of the public who believe the OSP could have adopted a more measured approach. Among proposals reportedly rejected by the OSP was a request from Ofori-Atta’s legal team to conduct questioning via video conference, citing his health issues. The Office, however, insisted that no charges had been filed yet, and that the former minister was required to present himself physically for the process.
Suggestions that OSP officials travel to meet Ofori-Atta abroad were also turned down due to concerns over taxpayer expense.
Prof Gyampo also highlighted the need for transparency, especially regarding the health of the former minister. “If he’s unwell, that should be made known. Health is no trivial matter,” he said.
He further questioned the OSP’s record on delivering results in earlier high-profile cases. “They come in loud, but the outcomes are often silent. Just look at the Cecilia Dapaah case,” Gyampo added, referencing an unresolved corruption case that has drawn criticism.
As scrutiny intensifies, both the OSP and its critics are under the spotlight, with the public watching closely to see whether justice will be served or politicized.
