Investigative journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni has disclosed fresh insight into the whereabouts and intentions of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, who has been evading multiple corruption probes. In a conversation with a relative of the former minister several months ago, Azure was informed that Ofori-Atta is determined not to return to Ghana as investigations intensify.
Ofori-Atta has been linked to a series of alleged corrupt acts being pursued by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) and other security institutions. These include contentious contracts involving Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML), questionable spending on the National Cathedral project, and other financial irregularities connected to health and tax refund operations.
The OSP first named him as a suspect in January 2025. After repeatedly failing to comply with demands to appear before investigators, he was labelled a fugitive in February of that year. His legal team requested the removal of his fugitive status with assurances that he would return for questioning, but he once again failed to show up when invited in June 2025 — leading to the reinstatement of the fugitive declaration.
The Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng, has confirmed that charges are being prepared against Ofori-Atta and others implicated in the SML matter. Meanwhile, extradition processes remain active through Interpol, with a red notice still in effect.
Despite nearly a year passing since he was first listed as wanted, there has been no arrest in the United States nor any voluntary step taken by the former minister to face the allegations at home. With this new revelation from someone close to him, pressure is mounting over whether Ghanaian authorities will ever succeed in bringing him back.
