The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has strongly denied reports suggesting it is refusing to cooperate with the Attorney-General (AG) in efforts to extradite former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta to Ghana to face criminal charges.
In a statement, the OSP described the allegations as “completely false and misleading,” insisting that both offices are working together to ensure due legal processes are followed.
Earlier this year, the OSP placed Mr. Ofori-Atta on its wanted list and triggered an Interpol Red Notice following his alleged involvement in multiple ongoing corruption investigations. Despite several agreements for his voluntary return, the former minister has yet to reappear in the country.
According to the OSP, the extradition process is being handled in line with international protocols and requires the collaboration of several global law enforcement agencies. “The process is complex, but progress is being made,” an official source said.
Mr. Ofori-Atta was identified in January 2025 as a suspect in several corruption-related cases, including alleged irregularities in contracts with Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML), questionable expenditures tied to the National Cathedral project, and issues involving tax refund operations.
Following his repeated failure to honour invitations for questioning, the OSP in February 2025 declared him a “fugitive from justice.” His lawyers subsequently petitioned for his removal from the wanted list, claiming he would return to Ghana voluntarily.
However, after failing to honour another agreed appearance in June 2025, the OSP reinstated his fugitive status and confirmed it would pursue extradition procedures through Interpol.
Ten months later, Mr. Ofori-Atta remains outside Ghana, reportedly residing in the United States. His prolonged absence has fueled public debate and media speculation over the pace of the extradition process.
Recent reports alleged that the Office of the Special Prosecutor had failed to cooperate with the Attorney-General’s office, causing delays in the extradition efforts. However, sources within the OSP insist that communication between both agencies remains “active and professional.”
“The OSP has not, at any point, obstructed or declined collaboration with the AG,” a senior official emphasized. “We continue to share intelligence and documentation necessary for the process.”
Legal analysts say extradition procedures often face delays due to international bureaucracies, especially when suspects hold foreign residency status or appeal against such notices.
The OSP has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring accountability and justice, stating that “no individual is above the law” and that due process will be followed until Ken Ofori-Atta returns to face the charges.
