OSP Issues Warrant for Ken Ofori-Atta, Declares Him a Fugitive

The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has officially declared former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta a fugitive, citing his role in causing significant financial loss to the state.

During a press briefing on February 12, Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng revealed that Ofori-Atta is being sought for his involvement in several financial dealings, most notably the controversial National Cathedral project and a deal between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Ltd (SML).

Ofori-Atta is accused of authorizing the release of state funds for the construction of the National Cathedral, a project promised by former President Akufo-Addo.

In 2020, at the request of the Chief of Staff, the former finance minister approved the release of an enormous ¢142.7 million for the project.

However, despite these substantial funds being allocated, the project has stalled due to alleged mismanagement and misuse of the funds, with the Board of Trustees, led by Rev. Kusi Boateng, coming under scrutiny for their handling of the money.

Ofori-Atta has been blamed for approving the funds without proper checks on accountability or value for money.

In another case, Ofori-Atta’s role in a 2019 deal between GRA and SML is also under investigation.

The GRA paid over ₵1 billion to SML for various services without obtaining the necessary approval from the Public Procurement Authority, as required by law.

This deal, along with the National Cathedral project, has led to widespread public outrage and calls for Ofori-Atta’s prosecution for financial misconduct.

Several anti-corruption bodies, including the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA), have demanded action against Ofori-Atta, urging for a full refund of the funds and accountability for the losses incurred.

Following these calls, the OSP has taken over the investigations and is now pursuing legal action to bring Ofori-Atta to justice.

The OSP has warned that Ofori-Atta, who is believed to be avoiding return to Ghana, has two options: voluntarily return to the country or face legal measures to enforce his return.