The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has issued a stern warning to former Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta, emphasizing that any failure to appear before the OSP by the agreed deadline will result in severe consequences.
In a statement released on March 17, 2025, the OSP specified that should Ofori-Atta fail to appear on June 2, 2025, he will be reinstated on the list of wanted persons and officially deemed a fugitive from justice.
“Mr. Ofori-Atta is mandatorily required to appear in person before the OSP on June 2, 2025. If he fails to do so, he shall be re-entered on the OSP’s list of wanted persons and considered a fugitive from justice,” the statement read.
The OSP further warned that it would take additional measures to apprehend the former minister, including requesting an Interpol Red Notice. This would prompt law enforcement agencies worldwide to locate and provisionally arrest him, paving the way for extradition proceedings.
“The OSP will cause the issuance of an Interpol Red Notice in his regard and also initiate extradition proceedings in any jurisdiction where he may be found,” it added.
The OSP acknowledged the legal battle initiated by Ofori-Atta, who has contested his prior designation as a wanted fugitive. The office clarified that it had previously removed his name from the wanted list based on a formal request from Ofori-Atta, in which he assured his cooperation with the investigation.
“Mr. Ofori-Atta formally requested the OSP to remove his name from the list of wanted persons, assuring that he would make himself available for questioning on a specified date. The OSP, acting in good faith, granted this request while awaiting his personal attendance,” the statement noted.
Despite the ongoing legal proceedings, the OSP reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that Ofori-Atta answers for his alleged role in five active corruption and corruption-related investigations.
Background
Ofori-Atta had previously filed a lawsuit at the Accra High Court, arguing that the OSP’s declaration of him as a wanted fugitive was unlawful and violated his fundamental rights. The former minister is seeking compensation for reputational damage and claims the announcement has caused him irreparable distress.
His legal team contends that the OSP’s actions infringed upon his rights to dignity, fair treatment, and administrative justice, and they have requested the court to rule in his favor.
The OSP’s latest warning signals a firm stance on ensuring compliance with its investigative process and underscores the potential international implications should Ofori-Atta fail to honor the summons.
