Investigative journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni has urged the Ghanaian state to widen its strategy in the pursuit of accountability against former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, arguing that the matter should not be confined strictly to legal procedures.
Speaking on TV3, Manasseh stressed that while the law remains important, Ghana must also activate other levers available within international relations.
“Beyond the law, there are diplomatic tools and international relations pressures that can be applied,” he said, insisting that public interest and moral accountability should not be stalled by procedural hurdles.
He added that, “At the time he left the country, there was no active investigation,” a point he believes complicates but should not end the pursuit of accountability.
His comments come against the backdrop of fresh disclosures by the Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Dr Dominic Ayine, who has confirmed that Ken Ofori-Atta has hired top-tier lawyers in the United States to resist efforts to have him returned to Ghana.
Dr Ayine made the revelation on Thursday, December 18, 2025, during the government’s Accountability Series, shortly after Ghana formally submitted an extradition request to US authorities for Ofori-Atta and his former Chief of Staff, Ernest Darko Akore.
“I have been informed that Mr Ofori-Atta has hired some of the top lawyers in the US with extensive experience to defend him. I am not afraid at all. It means that there is going to be a fight in the Federal Courts in the US,” the Attorney-General stated.
According to Dr Ayine, the extradition process in the United States is complex and could take time, as it is managed through the federal court system. He explained that such cases can move from the District Court to the Circuit Court and, if necessary, reach the US Supreme Court.
Despite acknowledging the potential delays, the Attorney-General maintained confidence in Ghana’s position.
“I have formally transmitted a request for the extradition of former finance minister, Ken Ofori-Atta and his Chief de Cabinet, Ernest Darko Akore,” he said, signaling the government’s resolve to see the process through.
