Frank Davies, a member of the legal team representing former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, has publicly defended his client’s absence from an appointment with the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) on June 2. The OSP had mandated Ofori-Atta's presence, but Davies attributed the former minister's nonappearance to serious health issues currently affecting him.
In his remarks, Davies articulated concerns regarding the public's skepticism about Ofori-Atta’s medical condition, insisting that he is receiving treatment in the United States. He stressed the importance of understanding that sudden health complications can hinder one’s ability to meet obligations. "If I tell you that I will come and see you tomorrow, and just on the brink of tonight, I suffer a casualty, would you see me tomorrow?" Davies questioned during an interview on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show. "Why should it be so difficult for people to understand that the person involved has a health challenge? This was known long before these charges were prepared against him; who didn’t know that Ken was not well?"
The OSP, which is tasked with combating corruption in Ghana, had previously warned that failing to appear could result in Ofori-Atta being labeled a fugitive. This could lead to the issuance of an INTERPOL Red Notice, setting in motion international arrest and extradition processes. The stakes are notably high, particularly given the sensitive nature of the allegations against Ofori-Atta.
The background of this case dates back to January 2025, when the OSP notified Ofori-Atta that he was under investigation in connection with five separate cases. The agency requested his presence on February 10 of that year. However, Ofori-Atta’s legal representatives informed the OSP that he was outside the country for medical reasons and offered to send a legal representative in his stead. The OSP, however, rejected this offer, insisting on a specific return date from the former minister. When no definitive date was communicated, the OSP deemed Ofori-Atta a fugitive on February 12, 2025.
You May Also Like
Following the declaration, Ofori-Atta’s lawyers submitted a physician’s note indicating he required further medical tests and potentially surgery, complicating his ability to return in a timely manner. By February 18, after securing a firm return date in May, the OSP removed his name from the wanted list.
In March of the same year, Ofori-Atta initiated legal action against both the OSP and the Special Prosecutor, seeking damages for what he described as an unlawful designation as wanted. He further requested the removal of related posts from the OSP’s social media accounts. The Human Rights Court is expected to provide a ruling on this matter on June 18, 2025.
As for the recent developments, despite earlier assurances that he would return, Ofori-Atta’s health has reportedly deteriorated, preventing him from complying with the OSP’s request. According to Davies, a letter updating the OSP on Ofori-Atta’s health status was sent on May 27, yet the situation remains precarious as tensions continue to escalate around the former minister’s legal battles and health concerns.