5 reasons why Ken Ofori-Atta is back on OSP’s wanted list

On June 2, 2025, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) reclassified former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta as a fugitive. This decision came after he failed to appear for interrogation.

This marks a serious escalation in the conflict between the OSP and Ofori-Atta. He served under President Nana Akufo-Addo’s administration.

The OSP is now seeking INTERPOL's help. They have requested a red notice for Ofori-Atta's arrest and extradition.

Why is Ofori-Atta under investigation?
The OSP is looking into five major issues involving finance and procurement:

1. Petroleum and minerals revenue assurance related to a contract with Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Ltd.
2. The termination of an electricity contract with Beijing BXC.
3. Irregularities in the National Cathedral Project’s procurement and payments.
4. A deal for 307 ambulances by the Ministry of Health.
5. Handling of public tax funds by the GRA Tax P-Fund.

Timeline leading to fugitive status:
In January 2025, the OSP named Ofori-Atta as a suspect and summoned him for questioning by February 10.

On January 31, his lawyers cited medical treatment abroad as his reason for absence.

By February 5, the OSP demanded a return date and warned of legal consequences.

On February 10, he was declared a fugitive for the first time.

His lawyers proposed a May return date on February 18; his fugitive status was temporarily lifted with a warning.

On May 28, they claimed he had surgery scheduled for June 13 but provided no verifiable documents.

OSP rejects delay tactics:
Despite offers to appear via video conferencing or send medical notes, the OSP rejected these options.

They stated, “This matter requires physical presence, not delay tactics,” in their June 2 declaration.

Ofori-Atta’s team has not provided credible medical documentation or a firm return date. This has increased suspicions of evasion from the OSP.

Legal actions underway:
An arrest warrant has been reissued against him.

INTERPOL has initiated a Red Notice for global tracking and arrest.

An extradition request is being prepared for submission to authorities.

Additionally, Mr. Ofori-Atta previously sued the OSP in March to remove his ‘wanted’ label. The court will hear this case on June 18, 2025.

The OSP emphasized that illness cannot shield someone from justice without verification.

What’s next?
With INTERPOL involved, this situation has escalated internationally.

Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng made it clear: “No one is above the law—and no one can evade accountability.”