During a recent parliamentary session, Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga called on former Finance Minister Ken Ofori‑Atta to return to Ghana and address allegations of financial mismanagement during his tenure. Ayariga drew a parallel between Ofori‑Atta’s situation and the biblical story of Zacchaeus, urging him to “come down” and face accountability.
Ayariga criticized Ofori‑Atta for allegedly using claims of ill health to avoid legal scrutiny, despite serious concerns surrounding his management of state funds. He highlighted controversies including contracts awarded to Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML), expenditures on the National Cathedral project, and actions linked to the banking sector cleanup — all of which he said negatively impacted Ghana’s economy.
Referring to Luke 19, where Jesus calls Zacchaeus down from a tree to face him, Ayariga stressed that Ofori‑Atta must return home, confront the allegations, and cooperate with ongoing investigations.
The remarks come amid actions by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), which has reportedly prepared charges against Ofori‑Atta but has been unable to serve them because he is currently receiving medical treatment at the Mayo Clinic in the United States.
Ayariga’s statements have intensified public debate and parliamentary attention, increasing pressure on the former finance minister to return to Ghana, take responsibility for his tenure, and face the legal process.
Source: Thepressradio.com
