By Lord Fiifi Quayle

In the landscape of Ghanaian politics, few figures have sparked as much debate—both admiration and criticism—as Ken Ofori-Atta, the former Finance Minister under President Nana Akufo-Addo. Instantly recognizable in his signature all-white senator attire and known for his frequent biblical quotations, Ofori-Atta’s journey from a financial powerhouse to a political outcast is a story filled with religion, ambition, controversy, and a staggering fall from grace.

Ofori-Atta, a co-founder of the investment firm Databank, was appointed Minister of Finance in 2017, swiftly establishing himself as a key player in the Akufo-Addo administration. His influence was undeniable; at times, it seemed he wielded more power than even the Vice President, Mahamudu Bawumia. Reports indicate that Ofori-Atta was not hesitant to exert this power, allegedly silencing dissent during cabinet meetings, including one memorable session at Peduase Lodge where he reportedly stifled the Vice President’s input.

However, his rise was not without challenges. Ofori-Atta’s leadership style, often perceived as aloof and dismissive towards party loyalists, ultimately led to his downfall. In a remarkable show of discontent, over 80 members of parliament from his own New Patriotic Party (NPP) joined forces to demand his removal. Their protests were not merely about policy disagreements but stemmed from a deeper frustration over Ofori-Atta’s apparent disregard for party unity and collaboration.

Backed by his cousin, President Akufo-Addo, all those that fell out with Ofori-Atta were heavily dealt with. The fallout was particularly painful for Osei Kyei Mensah Bonsu, who lost his position as leader of government business in the wake of these events. This political reshuffling underscored a crucial lesson: power in Ghana’s political arena is fragile, and loyalty can quickly turn into betrayal.

In a dramatic turn of events, reports emerged that Ofori-Atta’s house was raided by security forces just yesterday. Initially, there were whispers that this action was linked to the office of the Special Prosecutor, raising concerns about potential criminal charges. However, the Special Prosecutor’s office swiftly refuted these claims, branding Ofori-Atta a fugitive and insisting that he must return to Ghana to respond to the allegations against him.

The charges leveled against Ofori-Atta are serious and wide-ranging, revealing a troubling pattern of governance. They include:

1. Contractual Arrangements: His involvement in contracts between Strategic Mobilization Ghana Limited and the Ghana Revenue Authority aimed at enhancing revenue assurance in the downstream petroleum sector, upstream petroleum production, and the minerals and metals resources value chain.

2. Termination of Contracts: The controversial termination of a contract for the Distribution, Loss Reduction, and Associated Network Improvement Project between the Electricity Company of Ghana Limited and Beijing Xiao Cheng Technology (BXC).

3. Procurement Issues: Questions surrounding the procurement of contractors and materials, particularly regarding activities and payments related to the National Cathedral project.

4. Ambulance Procurement: Allegations concerning a contract awarded by the Ministry of Health (originally initiated by the Ministry for Special Development Initiatives) to Service Ghana Auto Group Limited for the purchase and maintenance of 307 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 305 CDI ambulances for the National Ambulance Service.

5. Tax Refund Account Utilization: Allegations regarding payments and the utilization of the Tax Refund Account of the Ghana Revenue Authority.

These charges suggest a troubling undercurrent during his tenure—one that raises serious questions about financial management and potential corruption. Ofori-Atta’s legacy as Finance Minister may now be overshadowed by these allegations, eclipsing the economic policies he once championed.

His frequent biblical references, which were once seen as a source of moral authority, now feel hollow in light of the growing scrutiny. The irony is palpable; a man who once preached fiscal responsibility and integrity now finds himself ensnared in a complex web of political and legal challenges.

As we grapple with our own economic difficulties, the fate of Ken Ofori-Atta serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked power and the importance of accountability. His story reflects not only the complexities of Ghanaian politics but also the universal truth that those who soar too high may find themselves plummeting just as swiftly.

In the weeks and months ahead, as Ofori-Atta confronts his legal challenges and the repercussions of his political actions, one can only speculate whether he will emerge from this turmoil as a reformed individual or remain a stark reminder of ambition gone awry. For now, the once-mighty Finance Minister stands as a figure in exile, both from power and from the trust of those he once associated with.

GHANA IS WORKING