Founder of Union Government, Akwasi Addai Odike, has stated that former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta is a significant political liability for Ghana's New Patriotic Party (NPP). According to Odike, the NPP's prospects are impacted as long as Ofori-Atta remains a fugitive from justice. He made these comments on Ahotor FM's Yepe Ahunu programme in Accra on September 26, 2026. Odike emphasized that the issues surrounding Ofori-Atta will remain a subject of public discussion.
Akwasi Addai Odike argued that the NPP cannot expect to regain power while the matter involving Ken Ofori-Atta remains unresolved. He described Ofori-Atta as a "turn-off" for the NPP and stressed that the party must confront the issue as part of its broader accountability concerns. The Union Government plans to use the Ofori-Atta issue as part of its campaign message to raise questions about economic management, accountability, and public officials' responsibilities.
The comments come amid legal proceedings involving Ofori-Atta and other accused persons in the Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML) case. The Office of the Special Prosecutor has brought corruption-related charges against Ofori-Atta and others. Akwasi Addai Odike emphasized that accountability must apply to every person who has occupied public office, regardless of political affiliation or former position.
Akwasi Addai Odike stressed the need for Ghana to build institutions that operate within a fair and credible legal environment. He argued that parliamentary or political status should not prevent lawful investigations or proceedings when a person acts in a private capacity. This, he believes, is crucial for creating a just and equitable society.
The issue, according to Akwasi Addai Odike, goes beyond one individual and concerns the kind of political and economic system Ghana wants to build. He maintained that Ghana needs leadership committed to creating jobs, strengthening local industries, adding value to natural resources, and reducing excessive dependence on foreign economies.
Akwasi Addai Odike's comments have sparked a national conversation about accountability and economic management in Ghana. The Union Government's stance on the Ofori-Atta issue is expected to be a significant part of its campaign message to the Ghanaian electorate. This development has implications for the NPP's future and Ghana's governance.
As the legal proceedings against Ken Ofori-Atta continue, Akwasi Addai Odike's call for accountability and transparency resonates with many Ghanaians. The case has raised questions about the accountability of public officials and the need for strong institutions in Ghana's democracy.
Key points
- Akwasi Addai Odike says Ken Ofori-Atta is a major liability for NPP.
- The NPP must confront the Ofori-Atta issue to regain public confidence.
- The Union Government plans to use the Ofori-Atta issue as part of its campaign message.
