Ghana’s former Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, has been declared a fugitive by the country’s Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyabeng, following allegations of corruption and financial mismanagement during his time in office.
Ofori-Atta, who served as finance minister from January 2017 to February 2024 under the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government, is accused of causing significant financial losses to the state. Among the most controversial allegations is his involvement in the failed national cathedral project, which reportedly consumed $58 million in government funds but remains an unfinished site.
Speaking at a press conference, Special Prosecutor Agyabeng stated that Ofori-Atta had left Ghana in early January, allegedly to avoid interrogation by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP). Despite being officially informed that he was under investigation, the former minister failed to attend scheduled interviews.
“He has no intention of willingly returning,” Agyabeng said, declaring Ofori-Atta a “wanted person” and “a fugitive from justice.”
Ofori-Atta has yet to respond publicly to the allegations. However, his legal representatives claim he is currently abroad for medical treatment.
Also, read: Headies Awards Unveils Nomination List for 17th Edition, Returns to Nigeria
Following the December 2024 elections, which saw the NPP lose power to the National Democratic Congress (NDC), newly elected President John Mahama has intensified efforts to combat corruption. Shortly after his inauguration in January, Mahama launched Operation Recover All Loot, a special investigative committee tasked with uncovering financial misconduct in government.
The committee has already received over 200 corruption complaints, with potential recoverable funds estimated at more than $20 billion. The president has also directed the attorney general and minister of justice to take legal action where necessary, emphasizing that Ghana will no longer be a refuge for corrupt officials. 
However, Mahama’s anti-corruption drive has drawn criticism, with some Ghanaians questioning why cases involving his former allies have been dropped. This has fueled concerns that the fight against corruption may be selective, targeting political opponents while sparing those linked to the current administration.
As investigations continue, the Ghanaian government has vowed to take all necessary steps to ensure Ofori-Atta’s return to face justice. Whether he will voluntarily comply or be extradited remains to be seen.
