Ghana’s former Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, has until Monday, June 2, 2025, to appear before the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) or face being declared a fugitive from justice. In a bold move, the OSP has also stated it will activate an INTERPOL Red Notice, effectively making Ofori-Atta internationally wanted.
This follows a string of missed deadlines and what the OSP describes as non-cooperation in multiple corruption-related investigations.
Why Ofori-Atta Is Under Scrutiny
The OSP is investigating Ofori-Atta over five major issues during his time as Finance Minister under President Nana Akufo-Addo. These include:
1. Petroleum and Minerals Revenue Assurance Deal
— Involving Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited and the GRA.
2. Termination of the ECG–BXC Contract
— A controversial decision linked to Beijing Xiao Cheng Technology.
3. National Cathedral Procurement and Funding
— Suspected irregularities in financial transactions and tendering.
4. Ambulance Procurement Deal
— Related to a Ministry of Health contract with Service Ghana Auto Group.
5. GRA’s Tax P-Fund Management
— Focused on how the fund was handled and disbursed.Key Events So Far
Key Events So far
- January 2025: Ofori-Atta was officially notified as a suspect and asked to report on
- February 10.
- 31 January: His lawyers claimed he was abroad indefinitely for medical reasons.
- 5 February: The OSP rejected the excuse and gave a final warning.
- 10 February: A doctor’s note was submitted but lacked a return date.
- 12 February: OSP declared him a fugitive and issued an arrest warrant.
- 18 February: After assuring a May return, the OSP removed his name from the
- wanted list.
- March 2025: Ofori-Atta filed a lawsuit against the OSP for reputational damage.
- 28 March 2025: A Human Rights Court heard his request to prevent further “wanted” killings declarations.
The Current Ultimatum
As of June 2, the Special Prosecutor has had enough. If Ken Ofori-Atta fails to appear in person at the OSP office:
●He will be relisted as a wanted fugitive
●An INTERPOL Red Notice will be issued for his arrest and extradition
A Red Notice is a serious global law enforcement alert that could lead to arrest in any of the 196 INTERPOL member countries.
This case has quickly turned into one of Ghana’s most politically charged corruption battles in years. The OSP’s firm stance signals a wider intent to hold high-ranking officials accountable—regardless of past status or ongoing political affiliations. All eyes are now on Ken Ofori-Atta’s next move
