The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has provided a significant update on the legal proceedings against Ghana’s former Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, confirming that the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) is now in possession of his extradition packet.
In a statement shared on X, the OSP detailed the latest developments in the case, revealing that formal steps are underway in the United States. According to the OSP, the DOJ has confirmed receipt of the extradition documents for Mr. Ofori-Atta. Consequently, summons and charge sheets have been transmitted to the former minister, who now faces two parallel legal processes in the US: immigration violation proceedings and formal extradition proceedings.
The update also touched on the status of Mr. Ofori-Atta’s co-accused, Ernest Darko Akore, who holds dual US-Ghanaian citizenship. The OSP informed the court that the DOJ, acting through Ghana’s Attorney-General, sought guidance on the procedural approach for Mr. Akore. The request was for advice on whether to effect an arrest before serving a summons or to serve the summons prior to any arrest.
In response, the Special Prosecutor advised the US authorities to adopt “the most expedient and judicious approach available under their laws” to secure Mr. Akore’s presence in the proceedings.
While the international legal process moves forward, proceedings in Ghana are continuing. The court was also updated on a procedural matter involving a sixth accused person, Kwadwo Damoah (A6). Prosecutors refiled the charge sheet for Mr. Damoah following his application to have his official titles formally recognized by the court. The charges were subsequently read afresh to reflect his correct designation as Hon. Col. (Rtd) Kwadwo Damoah.
The case has been adjourned to March 26, 2026. During this period, it is expected that disclosures in the case will continue, allowing all parties to prepare for the next hearing.
