Former Finance Minister Ken Ofori Atta has taken legal action against the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), contesting his designation as a wanted person and a fugitive from justice.
The controversy began on February 12, when the OSP declared Ken Ofori Atta a wanted man. Ken Ofori Atta has sued the OSP and demands the immediate removal of his photograph and details from the OSP’s website, arguing there was no legal basis for their publication.
Additionally, Ken Ofori Atta seeks compensation from the state and the OSP for allegedly unlawfully declaring him wanted and publicizing it on the OSP’s website. He claims this action was contrary to a letter dated February 18, which indicated he was no longer a wanted person. He is also requesting that the court compel the OSP to respond to his letters, including those sent by his lawyers, regarding unresolved matters.
OSP’s Response to the Lawsuit
In response, the OSP issued a statement confirming receipt of Ken Ofori Atta’s lawsuit. However, the OSP has now mandated that Ken Ofori Atta must appear in person on June 2, 2025. The statement warns that failure to comply will result in him being re-listed as a wanted person. Furthermore, an Interpol Red Notice will be issued should he refuse to show up in the jurisdiction before the said date. Some analysts believe the OSP’s stance is a response to the lawsuit, asserting its authority
According to legal experts, the OSP is emphasizing its legal powers, ensuring that should Ken Ofori Atta fail to appear, he will face serious legal consequences, including extradition.
Legal expert Martin Kpebu commenting on the issue on Joy News Desk earlier today explained that the OSP Act grants the office police powers similar to those of the Ghana Police Service. However, he emphasized that the procedure for such declarations should be examined closely.
He said although one of Ken Ofori Atta’s primary concerns is that the OSP declared him wanted without seeking a court order, the OSP claims it obtained an arrest warrant from the court. He said the resolution of this issue will depend on the evidence presented in court.
“We may have to wait and see what evidence is given to the court. Then we can judge who is right and who is wrong. Because that one is a matter of evidence.”
Ken Ofori Atta is also seeking compensation for reputational damage, claiming the OSP’s actions have affected his image. Addressing this concern, Martin Kpebu mentioned that as of his last check, Ken Ofori Atta’s name was no longer on the OSP’s website. “yesterday when I checked the OSP website, I didn’t see Ofori Atta’s details there on his picture. I saw four names, not Ken Ofori Atta included.”
Kpebu concluded that the lawsuit’s outcome hinges on whether the OSP followed the correct legal procedure in declaring Ken OFori Atta a wanted person.
“the request for damages, they are all basically hinged on whether OSP went to court for an arrest warrant… Basically, let’s wait and see how it turns out in court,” he said.
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