In an update on Ghana’s fight against corruption, Attorney General Dr. Dominic Ayine announced today that ex-Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta is actively resisting extradition from the United States, saying swapping with Abu Trica for extradition would have been an option.
Speaking on December 18, 2025, Ayine disclosed that Ofori-Atta, who faces a staggering 78 charges from the Office of the Special Prosecutor, has hired top-tier American legal experts to block the formal request sent to U.S. authorities. This move comes as Ghana seeks to hold accountable key figures from the previous administration, highlighting ongoing efforts to address financial irregularities that plagued the nation’s economy.
VIDEO: Attorney General Speaks on Extradition of Ken Ofori-Atta, Says Abu Trica Swap Would Have Been Easier
Ofori-Atta, a prominent relative of former President Nana Akufo-Addo, served as Finance Minister from 2017 to 2024, a period marked by controversial decisions including unapproved loans and questionable procurement processes. These actions are alleged to have contributed to Ghana’s severe economic downturn, culminating in a debt default in 2022. As the country continues its recovery path, with international support and domestic reforms, the charges against Ofori-Atta underscore the deep-seated issues of governance and fiscal management that have drawn widespread scrutiny both locally and abroad.
Public reaction to the news has been swift and intense, with many Ghanaians expressing outrage over what they perceive as an attempt to evade justice using potentially ill-gotten gains. Online discussions, particularly on social media platforms, have criticized the Attorney General’s approach, questioning why more aggressive measures aren’t being taken to ensure Ofori-Atta’s return. Voices from civil society argue that this case tests the resolve of Ghana’s anti-corruption institutions, calling for transparency and swift action to restore public trust.
As Ghana navigates its post-default economic landscape, cases like Ofori-Atta’s highlight the challenges in pursuing high-profile accountability. With the nation focused on stabilizing finances and attracting investments, the outcome of this extradition battle could set a precedent for how future corruption probes are handled, potentially influencing political dynamics and international relations in the region.
