The high-profile corruption case involving former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta and seven associates is set to proceed in Ghana’s High Court, though legal representatives indicate that proper court summons have yet to reach Ofori-Atta, who is currently abroad.
The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has charged the eight individuals with 78 counts of corruption and corruption-related offences, stemming from alleged irregularities in contracts between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML).
Ofori-Atta’s legal team maintains that their client is prepared to comply with all legal requirements once officially notified. Meanwhile, the OSP is reportedly coordinating steps to serve all defendants outside the country, including the former minister. Authorities have cautioned that failure to appear in court could result in a trial in absentia.
Alongside Ofori-Atta, the accused include several former high-ranking officials from the Ministry of Finance and GRA, as well as the management of SML. Investigations reportedly uncovered evidence of procurement violations, abuse of office, and financial mismanagement, which form the basis of the pending charges.
As the court date approaches, attention is focused on whether proper service can be effected and how the proceedings will unfold for defendants currently outside Ghana.
