Ken Ofori-Atta, who served as Ghana’s finance minister for seven years, is now the subject of an Interpol red notice following corruption allegations tied to his time in office.
The international alert, which requests law enforcement agencies around the world to locate and detain him pending extradition, was triggered by Ghana’s Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP). Authorities say Ofori-Atta is being sought in connection with multiple controversial deals, including contracts related to petroleum funds, the country’s energy supply, an ambulance purchase initiative, and the stalled construction of a national cathedral—an ambitious project that has consumed millions but produced little beyond a construction pit.
Earlier this week, the OSP officially reclassified Ofori-Atta as a wanted individual after he failed to appear for questioning. Despite claims that he is abroad receiving medical treatment, the OSP has moved forward with efforts to bring him back to Ghana to face legal proceedings.
The Special Prosecutor’s office accuses him of a range of misconduct, including questionable procurement practices and the mismanagement of public funds.
“We will not countenance this conduct, not in this case,” said Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng during a local media appearance on Monday, signaling a firm stance on the matter.
Ofori-Atta’s legal team has criticized the authorities for what they describe as a lack of compassion, pointing to his health condition. The OSP, however, has refused to allow a virtual appearance.
“We submitted medical records in good faith, and the office has chosen to ignore them,” attorney Frank Davies told AFP on Friday. “The special prosecutor is not being sensitive to the issues at hand, especially knowing that Mr. Ofori-Atta is unwell and receiving treatment.”
This move comes as part of a broader anti-corruption push under the administration of President John Mahama, which has intensified scrutiny of officials from the previous government. The attorney-general has confirmed that investigations are underway into 33 separate cases involving former public officials.
Ofori-Atta, a key figure in the previous administration led by former President Nana Akufo-Addo, now faces one of the most high-profile legal battles of Ghana’s recent political history.
