
The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has officially labeled former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta as a fugitive and a key suspect in four high-profile corruption cases. These investigations center on significant financial transactions and procurement deals during his tenure, raising serious concerns about accountability and transparency in public service.
The OSP, led by Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng, has revealed that despite multiple invitations for questioning, Mr. Ofori-Atta has failed to cooperate. His legal team has cited indefinite medical travel as the reason for his absence, but the OSP remains unconvinced, declaring him a fugitive and vowing to pursue all legal avenues to ensure justice is served.
Here are the four major cases under investigation:
- National Cathedral Procurement Scandal
Mr. Ofori-Atta is under scrutiny for alleged procurement irregularities linked to the controversial National Cathedral project. The project, which has faced widespread criticism over its funding and transparency, is being investigated for potential financial mismanagement and breaches of procurement laws.
- Strategic Mobilization Limited (SML) Contract
The OSP is probing a multi-billion-dollar contract between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilization Limited (SML), signed during Mr. Ofori-Atta’s time in office. Questions have been raised about the legitimacy of the deal and its financial implications for the state.
- ECG and Beijing Jao Loss Reduction Contract
Another case involves a contract between the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and Beijing Jao, aimed at reducing system losses. The OSP is investigating whether due process was followed and if the contract resulted in financial losses for Ghana.
- Health Ministry’s Ambulance Procurement Deal
The OSP is also examining contracts awarded by the Ministry of Health to Service Ghana Auto Limited for the procurement of ambulances. The investigation seeks to determine if procurement rules were violated and whether public funds were mismanaged.
Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng emphasized the gravity of these cases, stating that the OSP is committed to upholding accountability and ensuring that public officials are held to the highest standards of integrity. He reiterated that Mr. Ofori-Atta’s refusal to cooperate with the investigations has led to his classification as a fugitive, and the OSP will take all necessary steps to bring him to justice.
These investigations come at a time when public trust in government institutions is under strain, and the outcomes of these cases could have far-reaching implications for governance and accountability in Ghana. The OSP’s determination to pursue these matters underscores its mandate to combat corruption and ensure that public resources are managed responsibly and transparently.
As the investigations unfold, Ghanaians await further developments, hoping for accountability and justice in these high-stakes cases.
Source: GhanaFeed.Com