Interpol Red Notice Issued for Ghana's Former Finance Minister

September 29,2025

Interpol has issued a red notice for Ken Ofori-Atta, Ghana's former finance minister, following allegations that he used his public office for personal gain during his seven-year tenure under former President Nana Akufo-Addo.

Investigation Details

The 65-year-old former minister is currently under investigation for his involvement in several high-profile contracts, including:

• Petroleum revenue management
• Electricity supply agreements
• Ambulance procurement deals
• A controversial national cathedral project that consumed tens of millions of dollars in public funds but remains largely unbuilt.

Ofori-Atta's whereabouts remain uncertain, though he is reportedly seeking medical treatment abroad. The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) issued the red notice after he failed to appear for a scheduled interrogation, having previously declared him a wanted person.

Possible locations where Ofori-Atta may be include the United States, United Kingdom, South Africa, Guyana, Hong Kong, and the Cayman Islands.

Legal Dispute

The case has sparked tensions between prosecutors and Ofori-Atta's legal team. Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng has rejected requests for a virtual interrogation session, insisting the former minister must appear in person despite medical documentation submitted by his lawyers.

"We will not countenance this conduct, not in this case," Agyebeng told local media Monday.

Frank Davies, a member of Ofori-Atta's legal team, criticized the prosecutor's stance, stating that medical records were submitted "in good faith" but have been ignored. "The special prosecutor is not being sensitive to the issues at hand, especially knowing that Mr Ofori-Atta is unwell and receiving treatment," Davies said.

Broader Accountability Campaign

The development comes as President John Mahama's administration intensifies efforts to hold former government officials accountable. The attorney general is currently building 33 cases of corruption and related offenses against various former appointees from the previous administration.

The red notice represents a significant escalation in the case and enables law enforcement agencies worldwide to detain Ofori-Atta pending extradition to Ghana.

source: Al Jazeera