#multicdbonline | June 2025
Former Special Prosecutor Martin Amidu has added his voice to ongoing discussions surrounding the possible issuance of an INTERPOL Red Notice for Ghana’s former Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta.
In a public statement, Amidu noted that even if Ghana were to pursue extradition through INTERPOL, the U.S. government is unlikely to act on such a request if credible medical documentation proves Ofori-Atta is genuinely unwell.
“The U.S. will not extradite a person under a Red Notice if there is reliable evidence of serious illness,” Amidu stated, referencing international human rights norms and past precedent.
This comment comes amid intensified pressure and calls from various civil society groups for accountability over alleged financial mismanagement during Ofori-Atta’s tenure. Though no formal charges have been confirmed, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has reportedly shown interest in his activities prior to and after his exit from office.
Amidu, who previously held the same OSP position, emphasized that extradition is a legal process, not a political wish, and warned that pursuing it without airtight evidence — especially of wrongdoing and the suspect’s fitness to stand trial — could backfire.
“Even a valid Red Notice is not an international arrest warrant,” he added, “and sovereign countries like the U.S. weigh several factors before acting on them.”
This development underscores the complex intersection between international law, diplomacy, and health considerations in high-profile legal pursuits. As the debate unfolds, Ghanaians are watching closely to see whether legal action or political theatre will take center stage.
Stay tuned to #multicdbonline for updates as the story develops.