Ken Ofori‑Atta’s INTERPOL Red Notice Details Temporarily Removed from Public View — OSP Clarifies
Former Ghanaian Finance Minister Ken Ofori‑Atta has had his personal details removed from the public section of INTERPOL’s Red Notice listing, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) confirmed. The development comes after Ofori‑Atta submitted a formal request to INTERPOL’s Commission for the Control of Files, prompting a temporary suspension of public access to his name, photo, and other identifying information.
The OSP emphasized that this does not mean the Red Notice has been withdrawn. Rather, the commission is reviewing his application, which includes additional legal arguments submitted by his legal team. The public is therefore urged not to assume that Ofori‑Atta is no longer considered “wanted” under the ongoing investigations.
Background to the Red Notice
Ofori‑Atta was placed on INTERPOL’s Red Notice on 5 June 2025 after the OSP re-declared him a “wanted person” following his failure to appear for questioning on 2 June 2025. The arrest warrant, issued on 11 February 2025, is linked to allegations of corruption and abuse of public office in connection with the Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML) procurement case.
His lawyers had cited medical reasons for his absence, including a scheduled surgery in the United States, and requested either a virtual interview or review of his medical documents. The OSP, however, insisted on his physical presence, rejecting alternative proposals.
Family Response and Legal Challenges
Ofori‑Atta’s family has strongly opposed the Red Notice, filing a petition with INTERPOL’s Commission for the Control of Files demanding the alert’s removal. They argue that labeling him a “fugitive” was a breach of his rights, particularly given his health challenges. The family has accused the OSP of suppressing evidence and manipulating legal procedures, asserting that proper due process was not followed.
Political and Public Reaction
Public commentators have expressed divided opinions. Some, like Edem Senanu, co-chair of the Citizens Movement Against Corruption, criticized Ofori‑Atta’s legal team, suggesting their handling of medical issues left the OSP with no alternative but to escalate the matter to INTERPOL. Meanwhile, the OSP continues to press forward, filing 78 corruption-related charges against Ofori‑Atta in connection with the SML case.
The temporary removal of his details from INTERPOL’s public listing underscores the ongoing legal complexities and highlights the tension between international law enforcement mechanisms, individual rights, and high-profile political cases in Ghana.
Source: Thepressradio.com
