Ofori-Atta’s family accuses OSP of vendetta, violating rights over INTERPOL red notice

The family of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta has strongly criticized the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) for what they describe as a “premeditated vendetta” against the former official, accusing the OSP of abusing its power. 

In a statement issued on Monday, June 9, the family condemned the OSP’s actions, particularly the issuance of an INTERPOL Red Notice, claiming it violated due process, constitutional rights, and international law.

Allegations of Manipulated Evidence

The family claims that the arrest warrant issued on February 11, 2025, for Ofori-Atta, citing “using public office for private profit,” was obtained under questionable circumstances and without a supporting affidavit. Despite the warrant, they argue that no formal charges have been filed against Ofori-Atta. They also allege that the OSP’s declaration of Ofori-Atta as a fugitive from justice, which was made public through a media briefing, lacked legal authority and is currently under review by the Human Rights Court. A ruling on this matter is expected on June 18.

Medical Condition and Misrepresentation

The family also revealed that Ofori-Atta has been undergoing treatment for cancer at the Mayo Clinic in the United States, a condition that developed after post-COVID complications. They emphasized that he was scheduled for surgery on June 13, 2025, and had requested a video-recorded interview, citing his medical limitations. However, the family accused the OSP of disregarding his medical records and choosing to portray Ofori-Atta as a fugitive rather than accommodating his health needs.

"Instead of respecting the medical records and permitting a remote interview as the law allows, the OSP chose to stage a ‘public lynching’ and humiliate Mr. Ofori-Atta," the statement read.

Legal Action and International Concerns

The family has taken legal action, filing a lawsuit on June 3, challenging the legality of the arrest warrant and the conduct of the OSP. They are questioning whether the OSP disclosed Ofori-Atta’s pending medical treatment and court proceedings to INTERPOL before requesting the Red Notice. The family asserts that had these details been disclosed, the INTERPOL filing would have breached Articles 2 and 3 of INTERPOL’s constitution, which safeguard the right to health and prohibit political abuse of the system.

Political Motive and Human Rights Violations

The family concluded their statement by accusing the OSP of using its power for political purposes rather than pursuing justice. They cited procedural errors, including the suppression of evidence and violations of human rights. "Mr. Ofori-Atta has never fled from accountability. He faced inquiries from CHRAJ, Parliament, and the ECOWAS Court, and was cleared each time. This is not justice—it is vengeance," they stated.

They also affirmed that Ofori-Atta, once his treatment is completed, will return to Ghana to face any lawful investigations and expressed confidence that he would be acquitted. "We are confident that his rights will be restored, and when the investigations are completed, he will be fully vindicated," they concluded.

Ongoing Investigations and Charges

Ken Ofori-Atta remains under investigation for several high-profile cases, including:

Petroleum and Minerals Revenue Assurance, involving contractual arrangements between Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited and the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA).

Termination of a contract between the Electricity Company of Ghana and Beijing Xiao Cheng Technology (BXC).

Procurement procedures and financial transactions related to the construction of the National Cathedral.

Ministry of Health's contract for the purchase and maintenance of 307 ambulances.

Management and disbursement of funds from the GRA’s Tax P-Fund Account.

As the investigation continues, the family remains firm in their belief that the actions against Ofori-Atta are politically motivated, and they have pledged to seek justice for what they view as a violation of their relative’s rights.