‘Courts likely to treat Ofori-Atta as high-risk suspect’ – Richard Nii Armah

Legal practitioner Richard Nii Armah has said that former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta could face significant hurdles in securing bail if he returns to Ghana to answer charges.
He cited the former minister’s past conduct as evidence that he may be considered a high-risk flight suspect.

Speaking on Rainbow Radio 87.5 FM, Nii Armah argued that Ofori-Atta’s handling of previous legal obligations abroad has already set a precedent that courts are likely to weigh heavily in any bail decision.

“The actions of the former finance minister suggest that he is unlikely to comply with court directives if granted bail,” Nii Armah explained. “Examining his behavior after being allowed to seek medical care abroad and the legal filings he initiated to frustrate prosecution, judges may view him as someone who could flee the jurisdiction.”

According to the lawyer, Ofori-Atta could have voluntarily returned to Ghana to submit medical documentation, prove his illness, and request an extension for recovery. Instead, Nii Armah contended that the former minister has opted for court interventions that impede the prosecution, raising concerns about his willingness to cooperate.

“This isn’t about undermining his rights,” Nii Armah said. “But his consistent avoidance of legal processes increases the likelihood of a stringent bail consideration if he comes back.”

The lawyer highlighted that Ofori-Atta’s case is already influencing other court decisions. Nii Armah recounted an instance where police cited the former minister’s alleged evasion when opposing bail for another defendant.

“They argued that if a former finance minister has avoided justice, there is reason to doubt whether other defendants would comply with the law,” he said.

While acknowledging Ofori-Atta’s right to a fair trial, Nii Armah stressed that the former minister’s previous actions have effectively made harsh bail considerations almost inevitable. He warned that political complaints or public backlash should not obscure the legal realities of the situation.

“His conduct speaks for itself. Courts are likely to treat him as a high-risk individual,” Nii Armah concluded.

Ofori-Atta is currently detained in the United States under ICE supervision, and discussions continue regarding his potential return to face the ongoing prosecution in Ghana.