Anti-corruption activist and co-chair of the Citizens’ Movement Against Corruption, Edem Senanu, has urged the Special Prosecutor (SP) Kissi Agyabeng to remain steadfast despite mounting criticism over the handling of the investigation into former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta.
In a firm show of support, Senanu dismissed claims that the SP had been unfair in declaring Ofori-Atta wanted, stressing that legal institutions must not bow to external pressure.
Speaking on Prime News on ABC News GH, Senanu refute concerns that the SP was too harsh on the former minister.
“I don’t align with those that say it was an unfair practice,” he stated, pushing back against suggestions that the move was excessive.
Rather, he argued that the principle of accountability should be upheld, regardless of an individual’s political or social standing.
His comments follow the Office of the Special Prosecutor’s (OSP) recent decision to remove Ofori-Atta from its wanted persons list after his lawyers confirmed his scheduled return to Ghana in May 2025.
This comes after a period of uncertainty in which the former minister’s location was unknown, prompting the OSP to issue a public alert.
Senanu highlighted the critical lesson to be learned from the incident, particularly regarding the need for individuals under investigation to be responsive to state authorities. “It is untenable that any citizen should tell the security that they are indefinitely unavailable. I think that should never happen again,” he stated.
While acknowledging that criticism is inevitable, Senanu advised the SP to remain resolute. “The SP should stay focused. There will be criticism from different quarters on different issues, but if you pay attention to the facts and you are the one on the hot seat, you need a calm composure and demeanor to deal with these issues and to proceed,” he emphasized.
The former finance minister, who had been under investigation for alleged financial misconduct during his tenure, is now expected to cooperate fully with authorities upon his return. Senanu expressed confidence in the resolution of the matter, noting, “I am glad the lawyers went back with getting the facts right.”
As Ghana watches the unfolding developments, Senanu’s remarks underscore the importance of allowing legal institutions to carry out their mandates without undue influence, ensuring that accountability remains at the heart of the nation’s governance.