OSP is a waste of public funds – Kwabena Agyepong slams handling of Ofori-Atta

Former General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Ing. Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, has criticized the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP). He questions its relevance and performance in the case involving former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta.

Mr. Agyepong accused the OSP of conducting a “media trial.” He asked if the OSP is trying Ken Ofori-Atta in public rather than through courts. Currently, no charges have been filed against Ken, so he is not an accused person.

He also questioned why there has been a delay in prosecution. If the OSP has credible evidence, it should have charged Ken already. “Why hasn’t he started prosecution in a proper court?” he asked. He noted that people have been tried without being present before.

Mr. Agyepong challenged the legality of labeling Mr. Ofori-Atta as a “fugitive from justice.” Only a competent court can make such declarations, he stated. The prosecutor should focus on proving his case before a judge.

He criticized claims about threats to life that led to operating outside Ghana. If the prosecutor could work abroad, he could reach Ken too. Mr. Agyepong called this a PR stunt and labeled the OSP as a drain on public resources.

He defended Mr. Ofori-Atta’s right to remain silent under pressure. “Ken’s legal team should call his bluff,” he said. He warned against providing evidence that could incriminate him.

Despite his criticism, Mr. Agyepong supports lawful accountability in governance. He wants those who misbehave in government to face consequences but insists it must be done lawfully.

He cautioned that excessive actions could lead to political backlash for the NPP party. “We will not condone moves that damage our party’s brand,” he stated firmly.

Mr. Agyepong's comments have reignited debate over the effectiveness of the OSP and its cost to taxpayers.

About the OSP:

The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) was established in 2018 by former President Akufo-Addo as an independent anti-corruption agency. Its mandate includes investigating, prosecuting, and preventing corruption in both public and private sectors.

Backed by Act 959, it was designed to operate free from executive influence and address gaps in anti-corruption efforts.

However, since its creation, challenges have raised questions about its effectiveness and relevance.