Ofori-Atta saga: Key events OSP’s attempts to probe former finance minister

Ken Ofori-Atta Saga: Timeline of Special Prosecutor’s Pursuit

As the deadline for Ken Ofori-Atta approaches, we review the timeline. He is the former Minister of Finance in Ghana. The Special Prosecutor has sought to question him since January 2025.

Ofori-Atta initially planned to return to Ghana by June. However, he later stated that health issues would prevent his return. He suggested a virtual meeting instead.

The Special Prosecutor warned that Ofori-Atta could be declared a fugitive if he fails to appear. They may also request an INTERPOL Red Notice against him. Ofori-Atta served as Finance Minister from January 2017 to February 2024.

What is Ofori-Atta Being Investigated For?

Ofori-Atta faces investigations into five cases. These include contracts with Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited and the Ghana Revenue Authority. Other cases involve a contract termination with Beijing Xiao Cheng Technology and procurement related to the National Cathedral.

He is also being investigated for a Ministry of Health contract for ambulances and handling funds from the Tax P-Fund Account.

Timeline of Events

On January 24, 2025, the Special Prosecutor notified Ofori-Atta he was a suspect. He was directed to appear in person on February 10, 2025. On January 31, his lawyers informed the office he would be outside Ghana indefinitely for medical reasons.

On February 5, the Special Prosecutor rejected this claim and demanded a return date by February 10. They warned of legal consequences for non-compliance and clarified that lawyers cannot answer criminal charges on behalf of clients.

On February 10, Ofori-Atta's lawyers submitted a doctor's note about his health issues in the US. The Special Prosecutor received this letter skeptically.

On February 12, they declared him a fugitive based on an arrest warrant. On February 18, Ofori-Atta appealed to have his name removed from the wanted list and promised to return in May.

The Special Prosecutor removed his name after this assurance but set a new deadline of June 2, 2025, for him to report in person.

On March 16, Ofori-Atta sued the Office of the Special Prosecutor for compensation over being declared wanted. On May 28, the court adjourned his case until June 18.