Kpebu Appeals to U.S. for Support in Extraditing Ofori-Atta

Private legal practitioner, Martin Kpebu, has urged the United States government to collaborate with Ghana in securing the return of former Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta.

Speaking on TV3’s Key Points on Saturday, August 23, Kpebu acknowledged that extradition processes are often complex but stressed the importance of U.S. cooperation.

“Extradition can be a very complicated matter. We are hoping the American authorities will assist us because it is crucial that Mr. Ofori-Atta comes home to account to Ghanaians,” he said.

His remarks came as another lawyer, Austin Brako-Powers, called on the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) to provide updates on Ofori-Atta’s extradition and other ongoing investigations.

The OSP’s half-year report, released on Tuesday, August 19, revealed ongoing probes into suspected corruption tied to the National Cathedral project, including contractor procurement, payments authorized by Ofori-Atta, and other financial disbursements.

The Office is also investigating questionable contractual dealings between Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) and Tema Energy and Processing Limited, the alleged large-scale sale of appointment letters to prospective teachers, and the laundering of illicit proceeds.

Further inquiries are targeting suspected corruption at the National Commission on Culture between 2020 and 2024, particularly concerning staff salaries and arrears.

In the preface of the report, Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng emphasized that Ghana’s fight against corruption must combine enforcement with prevention and asset recovery. He revealed proposals for constitutional reforms to strengthen anti-corruption measures, including lifestyle audits, asset verification, and non-conviction-based recoveries.

He also disclosed ongoing work toward a Comprehensive Corrupt Practices Act and a Conduct of Public Officers Act, affirming the OSP’s determination despite the challenges ahead.