Frank Davies, a member of the legal team representing former Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, has dismissed the Office of the Special Prosecutor’s (OSP) decision to declare his client a wanted person, insisting that publicising charges does not amount to guilt.
Speaking on Citi Eyewitness News on Monday, June 2, Mr. Davies stressed that Mr. Ofori-Atta is not fleeing justice but is currently unwell and receiving medical treatment abroad.
“I want to understand that the Special Prosecutor knows what he is doing, because the justice delivery system is not to be treated casually, especially when you are dealing with the fundamental human rights of a suspect or an accused person at this stage,” he said.
“The fact that you are trumpeting a preferred charge against an accused person does not make him guilty.”
Mr. Davies further remarked, “I can assure you that Ken Ofori-Atta is not fleeing from justice; he is just not well, he is sick. If that is what Kissi Agyebeng finds a challenge, that is his cup of tea. He knows the bed that Ken is lying on, so he should go and bring him.”
His comments follow a firm statement from the OSP earlier that same day, officially declaring Mr. Ofori-Atta a wanted person for failing to honour multiple invitations to appear in person before the office.
The Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng, said the office has run out of patience after what it describes as repeated delays and noncompliance in an ongoing investigation into alleged financial misconduct. The probe includes charges such as money laundering and causing financial loss to the state.
Mr. Ofori-Atta’s legal team had previously submitted medical documents to the OSP and the Human Rights Court, requesting virtual engagement due to his health condition. However, the OSP rejected the request, insisting on a physical appearance.
With the latest declaration, the former minister now remains on the OSP’s list of wanted persons. The move could potentially lead to international enforcement actions, including a request for an INTERPOL Red Notice.
‘We want Ofori-Atta physically’ – OSP rejects virtual session request
Explore the world of impactful news with CitiNewsroom on WhatsApp!
Click on the link to join the Citi Newsroom channel for curated, meaningful stories tailored just for YOU:
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaCYzPRAYlUPudDDe53x
No spam, just the stories that truly matter! #StayInformed #CitiNewsroom #CNRDigital
