By:Kenneth Appiah Bani.
Former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta has broken his silence regarding the ongoing investigation by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), firmly asserting that his actions during his tenure were always guided by the best interests of Ghana. In an open letter dated February 26, 2025, Mr. Ofori-Atta addressed the allegations and recent developments surrounding the probe, emphasizing his commitment to integrity and transparency throughout his career.
“Over the past forty years, both in my personal and professional life, I have consistently operated with candor and forthrightness,” Ofori-Atta stated. “As the longest-serving Finance Minister in the history of the Fourth Republic (2017–2024), I faced unprecedented existential crises during my tenure. Throughout this period, I have always prioritized the best interests of Ghana and Africa, and I remain committed to doing so.”
The former minister expressed deep frustration over the OSP’s handling of the investigation, describing the situation as both perplexing and distressing. His comments come in the wake of a wanted notice issued by the OSP, which was later revoked after Ofori-Atta communicated his intention to cooperate voluntarily. However, authorities warned that failure to return as scheduled would result in further legal action.
The OSP’s investigation focuses on several high-profile financial transactions, including the Strategic Mobilisation-GRA Contract, the termination of the ECG-BXC contract, payments related to the National Cathedral, ambulance procurement, and the use of the Tax Refund Account. These matters have drawn significant public attention, with many questioning the transparency and accountability of the processes involved.
In his letter, Ofori-Atta sought to clarify his position, expressing confusion over the dramatic turn of events. “I have recently been in the news in a rather dramatic fashion. I believe it is important to share the facts surrounding these developments and the news articles concerning me and the Special Prosecutor. I am as puzzled and dismayed as I suspect many of you must be,” he wrote.
Ofori-Atta revealed that he was abroad for medical reasons when the OSP summoned him for an in-person meeting on February 10, 2025, in connection with four “corruption and corruption-related cases.” He emphasized that he was neither the originating nor implementing minister in any of the matters under investigation. Through his legal team, he promptly responded to the OSP, offering to provide any necessary information to assist in the investigation while explaining that he would be out of the country for medical reasons for several months.
However, the OSP rejected his offer to engage through legal representatives, insisting on his personal attendance. According to Ofori-Atta, the situation escalated when his home was raided by armed National Security operatives on February 11. He claimed that the Special Prosecutor accused him of orchestrating the raid himself and subsequently launched an international campaign declaring him a “fugitive from justice.”
“The Special Prosecutor’s actions have been deeply troubling,” Ofori-Atta wrote. “I have always been willing to cooperate fully with any legitimate investigation. However, the manner in which this matter has been handled raises serious concerns about due process and fairness.”
As the investigation continues, Ofori-Atta reiterated his commitment to Ghana’s development and his readiness to address any allegations transparently. “I remain steadfast in my dedication to serving Ghana and its people. I trust that the truth will prevail, and I am confident that my actions will be vindicated,” he concluded.
The case has sparked widespread debate about accountability, governance, and the rule of law in Ghana, with many calling for a thorough and impartial investigation to ensure justice is served.
