Albert Kwadwo Twum Boafo, civil engineer and former Chief Executive of the Ghana Free Zones Authority, has highlighted the complexities of extraditing individuals from foreign jurisdictions, citing legal and procedural hurdles that can delay such processes for years.
Speaking on the topic of Ken Ofori-Atta, Twum Boafo explained that the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) and the Attorney General’s office are working to prepare a case that meets U.S. legal requirements.
He noted that despite a mutual legal agreement between Ghana and the United States, extradition is rarely straightforward.
In past cases involving money launderers, the process took six years and required evidence to be thoroughly vetted by Ghanaian courts.
“Our judges, rightfully so, scrutinise extradition requests to the T,” Twum Boafo said, noting that no country is eager to extradite its citizens without rigorous examination of evidence.
He also stressed the reciprocal nature of such arrangements, adding that U.S. courts similarly evaluate requests to ensure there is no political persecution.
Twum Boafo underscored that while Ken Ofori-Atta has questions to answer regarding his economic stewardship, the focus remains on following proper legal channels.
The collaboration between the OSP and the Attorney General’s office ensures that all steps are documented, and judicial scrutiny is maintained before any individual is required to return to Ghana.
