Former Ghanaian Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta has allegedly been sighted in the United States, reigniting public debate about his legal troubles after the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) declared him a fugitive earlier this year.
The OSP had accused Ofori-Atta of financial misconduct during his tenure and issued a warrant as part of a broader crackdown on alleged corruption involving senior government officials.
The office further cautioned that should he fail to respond by a set deadline, his name would be restored to Ghana’s list of wanted persons, formally designating him a fugitive once again.
Reports, however, suggest that Ofori-Atta has been residing in the U.S. for several months. His continued stay abroad has raised doubts about whether Ghana’s authorities can enforce the warrant and whether the investigations will proceed effectively.
While the government has yet to comment on his reported presence overseas, analysts argue the case highlights structural weaknesses in the justice system—particularly when it comes to prosecuting politically influential figures.
Reactions among Ghanaians remain polarised. Some citizens express frustration over what they perceive as evasion of accountability, while others question whether his presence outside the country undermines or complicates local legal processes.
As the matter develops, Ofori-Atta’s case continues to dominate Ghana’s political discourse, symbolising the broader struggle over governance, transparency, and the rule of law.
OSP investigations into Ofori-Atta
The Special Prosecutor’s office has confirmed that Ofori-Atta is under investigation in connection with five major cases:
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Petroleum and Minerals Revenue Assurance – Reviewing contracts between Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited and the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA).
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Electricity Company Contract Termination – Probing the cancellation of a contract between the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and Beijing Xiao Cheng Technology (BXC).
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National Cathedral Project – Examining procurement practices and financial transactions related to the construction of the National Cathedral.
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Ambulance Procurement Scandal – Investigating the Ministry of Health’s contract with Service Ghana Auto Group Limited for 307 ambulances.
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GRA Tax P-Fund Management – Assessing the management and disbursement of funds from the GRA’s Tax P-Fund Account.
