Delay in Ofori-Atta extradition due to ongoing investigations – OSP

The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has said that the delay in finalising the extradition process for former Finance Minister Kenneth Ofori-Atta is not the result of conflict or negligence but.

He maintained that it was rather a consequence of ongoing investigations that must be completed thoroughly.

In asocial media post, Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng stressed that “there is no bad blood between the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) and the Attorney-General (AG), nor is there any contention over the case docket.”

He explained that the OSP is currently finalising its work on specific cases involving Mr. Ofori-Atta and intends to transmit all necessary information to the Attorney-General soon to facilitate the extradition process.

“The issue at hand is primarily one of timing,” Mr. Agyebeng noted, adding that his office “is focused on finalising its investigations” while preparing to file additional charges against other individuals linked to the matter.

He further urged the public to exercise patience, reminding citizens that “investigations and prosecutions take time,” and emphasised that the OSP operates as an independent prosecutorial body with limited jurisdiction over corruption-related offences.

The Special Prosecutor revealed that since February, his office has conducted searches and seized vital evidence, including computers, servers, and documents from Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML). These materials are being analysed as part of the final investigative report.

“Between September and October, there has been a brief gap — one the OSP is currently working to fill by completing and transmitting the final investigative report to the Attorney-General,” he added.

Kenneth Ofori-Atta, who is currently said to be receiving medical treatment abroad, was declared wanted earlier this year after failing to honour multiple invitations for questioning over alleged corruption-related offences.

The OSP has since requested an INTERPOL Red Notice for his arrest in connection with alleged abuse of public office for profit, particularly concerning the National Cathedral project and the SML revenue assurance contract.