We investigated an ex-President; what’s special about Ofori-Atta? – Special Prosecutor asks

The Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng, defended declaring former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta wanted. He emphasized that no one is above the law.

At a press briefing on June 2, he responded to criticisms. He stated there is “nothing special” about this declaration.

“Is this the first time someone has been declared wanted?” he asked. He noted that previous individuals declared wanted were also human.

“There’s nothing secretive about it,” he added. “It is just a simple legal process.”

Mr. Agyebeng referenced President John Mahama's investigation by his office. He pointed out that even former heads of state can be investigated.

“We investigated a former president,” he reminded reporters. “On August 8, 2024, I shared our findings with Ghanaians.”

He stressed that the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) follows principles, not personalities.

“The OSP does not regard persons or titles,” he said. “Everyone is treated equally in our investigations.”

He asserted that no one is beyond their reach if suspected of a crime.

The Special Prosecutor rejected claims that suspects dictate investigations.

“A suspect cannot choose how we investigate,” he explained. “We do not take statements online from foreign jurisdictions.”

As of June 2, 2025, Mr. Ofori-Atta has been declared wanted again. This follows his failure to appear at the OSP's headquarters by the deadline.

This action violates an earlier agreement that removed him from the wanted list temporarily.

In February 2025, the OSP labeled Mr. Ofori-Atta a "fugitive from justice." This was due to his repeated non-compliance with summons regarding corruption allegations.

These allegations include contracts with Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited and issues related to the National Cathedral project during his tenure as Finance Minister from 2017 to 2024.