The family of former Finance Minister Kenneth Ofori-Atta has publicly accused the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) of abusing its authority, alleging procedural violations, manipulation of evidence, and a disregard for the legal process in its pursuit of the embattled statesman.
In a press release dated June 9, the Ofori-Atta family strongly criticized the OSP’s actions, including its decision to request an INTERPOL Red Notice for Mr. Ofori-Atta, who is currently undergoing cancer treatment abroad.
According to the statement, the Red Notice was issued despite the absence of formal charges and ongoing legal proceedings in the Human Rights Division of Ghana’s High Court.
The family claims that Mr. Ofori-Atta was willing to cooperate with investigators and even offered to provide a cautioned statement via video while receiving medical care. Despite this, the OSP went ahead to label him a fugitive in a public media briefing—an act the family argues was both unlawful and a violation of his constitutional rights.
“The OSP has disregarded the ongoing proceedings in the Human Rights Court of Ghana, where a ruling is scheduled for June 18,” the statement read. “By contemptuously repeating the declaration of Mr. Ofori-Atta as a wanted person, the OSP has trampled on due process and administrative justice.”
The family is contesting the legitimacy of the arrest warrant issued on February 11, 2025, which alleges that Mr. Ofori-Atta used public office for private profit. They argue that the warrant was obtained under questionable circumstances, including the apparent absence of a supporting affidavit.
Furthermore, the statement highlights broader concerns, accusing the OSP of infringing on Mr. Ofori-Atta’s rights to health, freedom of movement, and personal liberty—all of which are enshrined in Ghana’s Constitution and international human rights instruments.
A formal petition has been lodged with INTERPOL’s National Central Bureau and the Commission for the Control of INTERPOL’s Files, calling for the deletion of the Red Notice.
Legal analysts and civil society observers are closely watching the unfolding situation, especially as the Human Rights Court prepares to deliver its ruling on June 18.
The outcome may have significant implications for the powers of the OSP and the rights of individuals under investigation in Ghana.
Meanwhile, the OSP has not yet responded to the allegations made by Mr. Ofori-Atta’s family.
