By: Alexander Afriye
Accra, Ghana – In a significant development in the ongoing investigations into alleged corruption and financial misconduct, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) in Ghana has successfully obtained an INTERPOL Red Notice for former Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta. This move underscores the OSP’s commitment to pursuing justice and accountability, even beyond national borders.
The INTERPOL Red Notice, which was issued following a thorough investigation by the OSP, marks a critical step in the legal proceedings against Ofori-Atta. The notice is a request to law enforcement agencies worldwide to provisionally arrest Ofori-Atta pending extradition or other legal actions.
Background of the Investigation
The OSP’s investigation into Ofori-Atta’s activities began in January 2025, when he was named a suspect and summoned for questioning on February 10, 2025. However, Ofori-Atta’s legal team claimed he was abroad for medical reasons, leading to a series of legal maneuvers and delays.
Key Issues Under Investigation
The OSP is investigating Ofori-Atta for five key issues:
1. Petroleum & Minerals Revenue Assurance: A contract between Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Ltd and GRA is under scrutiny.
2. Electricity Contract Termination: The cancellation of EGG’s agreement with Beijing BXC is being investigated.
3. National Cathedral: Procurement and payment processes are being examined.
4. Ambulance Deal: The Ministry of Health’s contract for 307 ambulances is under investigation.
5. GRA Tax P-Fund: The handling and disbursement of tax fund accounts are being reviewed.
Legal Moves and Recent Developments
In March 2025, Ofori-Atta sued the OSP over his “wanted” status, demanding the removal of his history of publication on social media. On March 28, the Human Rights Court heard Ofori-Atta’s plea to block the OSP from future declarations and adjourned the case to June 18, 2025.
With less than a week to the deadline, lawyers notified that Ofori-Atta cannot meet the deadline due to surgery scheduled for June 13, 2025. The OSP offered to send a scan to confirm illness, but no certified medical records or formal excuse were provided. The OSP also offered video conferencing, which was rejected, stating that the matter requires physical presence, not delay tactics.
OSP’s Actions
The OSP has taken several actions, including:
– Reissuing an arrest warrant
– Adding Ofori-Atta to the INTERPOL Red Notice for international cooperation
– Requesting to activate extradition with the central authority
– Stating that illness is not a shield from accountability unless certified as incapacitating
The OSP’s actions demonstrate its unwavering commitment to upholding the law and ensuring that individuals accused of corruption and financial misconduct are held accountable, regardless of their position or influence.