Ofori-Atta must first be arrested before any trial in absentia – OSP clarifies

The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) clarified a key point. Former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta cannot be tried in absentia. This is only possible if he is first arrested and charged under Ghanaian law.

Samuel Appiah Darko spoke on JoyNews’ Newsfile on June 7. He is the Director of Strategy, Research, and Communication at the OSP. He explained the legal process needed for a trial in absentia.

Darko said, “When they talk of trial in absentia, I’m like wait a minute.” He emphasized that arrest processes must be completed first.

He detailed how to secure a warrant. A law enforcement agency must go to court and file a motion or affidavit. They need to provide details about the offense to obtain a warrant.

If this fails, they can approach a district court judge. The judge can then issue a warrant for police action.

This clarification comes after renewed efforts by the OSP to apprehend Ofori-Atta. He missed a summons deadline on June 2.

His legal team cited cancer treatment as the reason for his absence. They submitted medical documents, but the OSP found them inadequate.

As a result, INTERPOL was formally requested to assist. On June 5, Ofori-Atta was placed on INTERPOL’s Red Notice list.

The notice identifies him as a 65-year-old Ghanaian male from Accra. He is fluent in both English and Twi.