Kpebu questions OSP’s rejection of virtual interview for ailing Ofori-Atta

Renowned private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu has urged the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) to provide a clear legal rationale for refusing a virtual appearance by former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta in ongoing investigations.

Mr. Ofori-Atta’s legal team recently disclosed that the former minister is undergoing treatment for cancer and preparing for surgery, making his return to Ghana presently impossible. As a result, they have requested that he be allowed to provide a statement virtually.

However, the Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng, declined this proposal, reiterating that in-person attendance is non-negotiable in criminal investigations. When Mr. Ofori-Atta failed to report as agreed on June 2, he was once again declared a wanted man, with the OSP activating steps for an INTERPOL Red Notice to enable his arrest and extradition.

Speaking on Joy FM’s News Night on Monday, Kpebu noted that although the OSP has begun efforts to extradite Ofori-Atta through INTERPOL, it has not convincingly explained why it will not consider video conferencing as an interim option—especially in light of provisions within Ghana’s Mutual Legal Assistance Act, 2010 (Act 807).

While Mr. Kpebu made clear that he does not oppose the OSP’s general stance on ensuring accountability, he stressed that legal processes must remain transparent and justifiable.

The issue continues to stir legal and political debate as Ghanaians await the next move in this high-profile standoff.