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Government Spokesperson Julius Kwame Anthony has criticised former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta over what he described as efforts to evade justice, insisting that the matter involves suspicions of wrongdoing that must be addressed through due process.
Speaking on Breakfast 247 on Channel 247 with host Mesopeh Jeremiah, Antony questioned why a former holder of such a high public office would fail to comply with lawful requests from state institutions to return to Ghana and face investigations.
He stressed that Ofori-Atta has not been declared guilty of any crime, but is only being asked to cooperate with law enforcement agencies to allow the courts to determine the matter. According to him, fleeing the country undermines confidence in the justice system.
Antony further referenced reports that Ofori-Atta’s US visa had been revoked, with a deadline issued for his departure, yet efforts were allegedly being made to remain in the United States contrary to immigration restrictions.
Addressing claims that Ofori-Atta feared unfair treatment upon returning to Ghana, the spokesperson said such concerns were unfounded. He noted that the Attorney General had publicly assured both local and international legal representatives of fair treatment under the law.
To buttress his argument, Anthony cited several high-profile cases involving former government officials who have faced prosecution without being mistreated. He mentioned environmental and financial crime cases involving party affiliates and former appointees.
He questioned why Ofori-Atta’s case should be treated differently, arguing that others facing similar or even more serious charges have appeared before the courts without allegations of torture or persecution.
Anthony concluded that the former finance minister’s continued absence raises legitimate questions, urging him to return home, submit himself to the law, and allow the courts to determine his innocence or otherwise.
