Ghana’s ex-finance minister, Ken Ofori-Atta no longer considered a fugitive

This decision follows a formal communication from Mr Ofori-Atta’s legal representatives, confirming the ex-finance minister’s status and providing a definitive date for his return to the country.

On 12 February 2025, the OSP declared Mr Ofori-Atta a wanted individual and a fugitive from justice.

The declaration was made after he failed to provide a reasonable timeline for his return, despite being officially notified by the OSP that he was a suspect in various corruption and corruption-related investigations.

He had also been directed to appear in person at the OSP’s headquarters in Accra on a specified date for questioning.

According to the OSP, on 18 February 2025—six days after being declared wanted—Mr Ofori-Atta, through his lawyers, formally communicated a specific date for his voluntary return to Ghana.

“This marks a major shift from Mr Ofori-Atta’s previous intention of remaining outside the jurisdiction indefinitely,” the OSP stated.

Following this development, the OSP deemed Mr Ofori-Atta’s stated return date as reasonable and, accordingly, adjusted his scheduled appearance at its office.

Mr Ofori-Atta had previously informed the OSP, through his legal representatives, that he was receiving medical treatment abroad and would be staying overseas indefinitely. However, with the new development, the OSP has accepted his commitment to return and cooperate with investigations.

“Consequently, Mr Ofori-Atta has been removed from the OSP’s list of wanted persons, and the OSP ceases to consider him a fugitive from justice pending his voluntary return to the jurisdiction,” the statement added.

The OSP, however, cautioned that should Mr Ofori-Atta fail to return as per his stated date or refuse to appear before the OSP on the rescheduled date, he would be reinstated on the list of wanted persons.

The statement further warned that in such a scenario, the OSP would take all necessary legal measures to ensure his return and compliance with the ongoing investigations.

“If he fails to voluntarily return to the jurisdiction as stated, and if he fails to attend the OSP on the rescheduled date, he shall be re-entered on the OSP’s list of wanted persons.”

“The OSP shall then consider him a fugitive from justice and take all necessary legal steps to secure his return and attendance at the OSP at our own choosing,” the statement concluded.

While Mr Ofori-Atta’s removal from the wanted list marks a significant development, the corruption-related investigations against him remain active.

His cooperation with the OSP upon his return is expected to provide further clarity on the allegations levelled against him.