The Deputy General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Haruna Mohammed, has accused the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) of unfairly targeting former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta.
This comes amid heightened tensions between the OSP and Ofori-Atta, with the Special Prosecutor warning that the former minister would be re-listed as a wanted person if he fails to appear for questioning on June 2, 2025.
Mr Mohammed argued that the approach being taken by the Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyabeng appears more like intimidation than due process.
In an interview on JoyNews' The Pulse on Monday, March 17, Mr Mr Mohammed said Ofori-Atta has not refused to appear before the OSP but has chosen to let his legal team handle some of the corruption allegations on his behalf.
“Ken Ofori-Atta can appear before the Special Prosecutor, and his lawyers can speak on his behalf without him even opening his mouth. Is that right or wrong? He has said that some of the corruption allegations raised can be properly addressed by his lawyers. If those matters are not satisfactorily dealt with, he will definitely appear on the agreed date and respond to the issues,” Mr Mohammed stated.
He further criticised the OSP for treating the case as though a judgment had already been passed, emphasising that the allegations remain unproven and that it is the responsibility of the OSP to establish credible evidence.
“The OSP is handling this case as if a judgment has already been made. These are just allegations, and it is their duty to provide evidence against the individual. We expect the OSP to show some level of respect and professionalism in dealing with senior officials of this country,” he added.
Addressing concerns about equality before the law, Mr Mohammed clarified that his argument was not about shielding Ofori-Atta from legal scrutiny but rather about ensuring fairness in the process.
“I am not saying that anyone is above the law, but there should be a level of decorum in handling such matters. Going to court is not illegal; it is the right of every citizen. Ofori-Atta never said he would not appear on the defined date.
"So why is the OSP making public announcements and issuing threats? It appears as though they are trying to pressure him into withdrawing his court case, which should not be the case,” he stated.
He urged the OSP to allow all citizens, including Ken Ofori-Atta, to enjoy the legal rights enshrined in the 1992 Constitution, without what he perceives as undue pressure or intimidation.
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