Court Dismisses Legal Challenge Against OSP
The Human Rights Division of the Accra High Court has dismissed an application by former Minister for Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta, seeking to invalidate an arrest warrant secured by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP).
In its ruling delivered on Thursday, the court found that the application lacked merit and affirmed the legality of the warrant and the subsequent request for an Interpol Red Notice.
Ofori-Atta’s Legal Challenge Rejected
Mr. Ofori-Atta, through his lawyers, had requested the court to quash the warrant on grounds that the OSP had overstepped its legal boundaries and failed to follow due process in obtaining the warrant. He also sought to nullify any enforcement measures taken by the OSP based on that warrant.
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However, the presiding judge held that the Special Prosecutor acted within the powers granted by law and dismissed the former minister’s claims entirely.
OSP Declares Former Minister Wanted
The ruling marks a significant moment in the ongoing legal tussle between the anti-corruption body and the former Finance Minister. The OSP is probing Mr. Ofori-Atta for alleged procurement breaches and financial mismanagement during his tenure.
Despite multiple formal invitations, Mr. Ofori-Atta has yet to appear before the OSP, citing ongoing medical treatment abroad. In response, the Special Prosecutor officially declared him a wanted person in June and initiated efforts to involve Interpol in securing his return.
What Lies Ahead
With the court upholding the OSP’s actions, enforcement proceedings, including the possible issuance of an Interpol Red Notice, are expected to move forward unless Mr. Ofori-Atta voluntarily returns to face the investigation.
