The corruption charges against former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta are not political persecution but a matter of justice. His lawyers’ claim of “political motivation” is a hollow diversion that insults the intelligence of Ghanaians. At stake is not partisan rivalry but the integrity of Ghana’s institutions and the protection of public resources.
1. The Charges Are Legal, Not Political
- Ofori-Atta faces 78 counts of corruption and corruption-related offenses, including unlawful contracts awarded to Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML).
- These charges are grounded in procurement law violations and abuse of office, not partisan vendettas.
- The involvement of private entities underscores that this is a corruption case, not a political witch-hunt.
2. The Hypocrisy of “Political Motivation”
- Ofori-Atta’s lawyers claim persecution while he remains abroad, evading Ghanaian jurisdiction.
- This contradiction exposes hypocrisy: one cannot profess loyalty to Ghana’s laws while refusing to submit to them.
- In the United States and other democracies, officials accused of corruption face trial without hiding behind political excuses. Ghana must demand the same standard.
3. The Cost of Corruption to Ghana
- Corruption drains resources meant for schools, hospitals, and infrastructure.
- The alleged contracts with SML represent millions of cedis lost to the state.
- Shielding Ofori-Atta from accountability entrenches impunity and betrays citizens who demand justice.
4. Call to Law Enforcement: Freeze and Pursue Assets
To restore confidence in Ghana’s justice system, law enforcement agencies must act decisively:
🔹 Domestic Measures
- Freeze all businesses, assets, bank accounts, and properties linked to Ofori-Atta until the trial concludes.
- Audit contracts and financial flows involving Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited and related entities.
🔹 International Measures
- Issue an Interpol Red Notice to prevent Ofori-Atta from enjoying safe haven abroad.
- Trace and seize foreign accounts and investment interests, even in offshore jurisdictions and tax havens.
- Collaborate with international financial intelligence units to ensure no illicit wealth escapes scrutiny.
5. Recommendations for Civic and Institutional Action
- Civil Society Advocacy: Mobilize petitions, media campaigns, and coalition pressure to demand accountability.
- Judicial Independence: Guarantee that the courts operate free from political interference.
- International Solidarity: Ghana’s partners must support anti-corruption efforts by refusing to shield accused officials.
Ending the Double Standards
Ken Ofori-Atta’s case is not about politics—it is about justice. His lawyers’ claim of political motivation is a smokescreen designed to distract from the gravity of the charges. Ghana must act decisively, just as other nations hold their leaders accountable.
Justice delayed is justice denied. Law enforcement must freeze his assets, chase his foreign accounts, and repatriate him immediately to face trial in Ghana. The hypocrisy must end.
Retired Senior Citizen
Teshie-Nungua
[email protected]