SML Scandal Ghana: OSP Postpones Ken Ofori-Atta Court Appearance After High Court Adjournment

Introduction

In a significant development in the ongoing SML scandal Ghana, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has officially postponed the arraignment of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta and seven others. The delay stems from the High Court’s Criminal Division failing to convene on the scheduled date of November 24, 2025. This OSP postpones courtroom appearance news highlights procedural hurdles in high-profile corruption cases, drawing public attention to accountability in Ghana’s public procurement processes.

The case revolves around controversial contracts between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML), raising questions about procurement integrity and oversight. This article provides a pedagogical breakdown of the events, charges, and broader context to help readers understand the GRA-SML contract controversy and its judicial journey.

Analysis

Background on the SML Scandal

The SML scandal Ghana emerged from an investigation into revenue assurance contracts awarded by the GRA to Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML). These agreements aimed to enhance tax monitoring through digital solutions but faced scrutiny for alleged irregularities. Public discourse intensified after revelations of substantial payments without adequate oversight, prompting the OSP’s probe into potential breaches of public procurement laws.

Role of the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP)

Established under Ghana’s Office of the Special Prosecutor Act, 2017 (Act 959), the OSP investigates and prosecutes corruption involving public officers. In this instance, the OSP filed charges against eight individuals, signaling a commitment to combating procurement-related graft. The postponement notice, posted on the OSP’s official Facebook page, underscores transparent communication in OSP court proceedings.

Reasons for High Court Adjournment

Court adjournments are common in Ghana’s judicial system due to factors like judicial workload or unforeseen scheduling issues. On November 24, 2025, the High Court did not sit, leading to the rescheduling of case number CR/0106/2026. This procedural step ensures all parties—the Republic (prosecution) and accused persons—receive formal notification of the new date.

Accused Individuals and Charges

The eight accused include:

• Kenneth Nana Yaw Ofori-Atta (former Finance Minister)
• Dr. Ammishaddai Owusu-Amoah (former GRA Commissioner-General)
• Emmanuel Kofi Nti (former GRA Commissioner-General)
• Isaac Crentsil (senior GRA officer)
• Kwadwo Damoa (senior GRA officer)
• Ernest Akore (former Finance Ministry Technical Advisor)
• Evans Adusei (SML proprietor)
• Strategic Mobilisation Limited (corporate entity)

They face 78 counts, including conspiracy to influence the procurement process and breaches of the Public Procurement Act, 2003 (Act 663). These charges allege manipulation in awarding contracts worth millions of cedis.

Summary

The High Court adjournment SML scandal on November 24, 2025, halted the initial arraignment in the Ken Ofori-Atta SML case. The OSP promptly informed stakeholders via social media, stating a new date would be announced. This delay postpones proceedings on serious allegations tied to GRA-SML deals, maintaining public interest in Ghana’s anti-corruption efforts.

Key Points

Practical Advice

Staying Informed on SML Scandal Updates

To follow the SML scandal Ghana developments, subscribe to official OSP channels and reputable news outlets. Use keywords like “OSP SML case updates” in searches for real-time alerts. Avoid unverified social media claims to prevent misinformation.

Understanding Court Processes in Ghana

For citizens tracking cases like the Ken Ofori-Atta arraignment, learn basic judicial terms: “arraignment” means formal charge reading, while “adjournment” indicates postponement. Check the Judicial Service of Ghana website for case schedules once announced.

Engaging in Public Discourse Responsibly

Discuss the GRA-SML contract controversy on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) using hashtags #SMLScandal #OSPGhana, but base opinions on verified facts. Report corruption tips anonymously via OSP hotlines.

Points of Caution

• Misinformation Risks: Reader comments do not represent official views; verify with primary sources like OSP announcements.
• Presumption of Innocence: Accused persons are innocent until proven guilty in court.
• Procedural Delays: Adjournaments are standard and do not imply case weakness.
• Media Bias: Cross-reference reports from multiple outlets for balanced coverage of High Court SML scandal.

Comparison

Similar High-Profile Cases in Ghana

This OSP postpones courtroom appearance mirrors delays in other corruption probes, such as the 2020 Australian Visa Scandal involving former Deputy Minister Joseph Yamson, where adjournments extended timelines. Unlike the faster-paced Airbus scandal prosecutions, the SML case involves complex procurement forensics.

Procurement Scandals: SML vs. Others

Compared to the STX Housing scandal (2012), which collapsed due to evidential gaps, the SML investigation boasts 78 charges backed by OSP audits. GRA-SML contracts parallel PDS power deal controversies, both highlighting digital oversight failures in public-private partnerships.

Legal Implications

Charges Under Public Procurement Act

Breaches of Act 663 carry penalties including fines, imprisonment up to 10 years, or both. Conspiracy charges under the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29) could lead to similar sanctions, emphasizing deterrence in Ghana procurement scandals.

Impact on Ongoing Investigations

The adjournment does not halt OSP probes; it allows preparation time. Successful convictions could recover misappropriated funds and set precedents for revenue assurance contracts. Corporate liability for SML underscores Ghana’s evolving anti-corruption framework.

Broader Judicial Ramifications

High Court delays reflect systemic strains, prompting calls for specialized anti-corruption courts. Article 19(2)(e) of the 1992 Constitution mandates speedy trials, influencing future case management in scandals like SML.

Conclusion

The SML scandal Ghana postponement exemplifies procedural realities in pursuing justice against high-level graft. As the OSP and High Court reschedule the Ken Ofori-Atta arraignment, it reaffirms Ghana’s institutional fight against procurement abuses. Staying vigilant ensures accountability prevails, fostering trust in public institutions. Watch for official updates on this pivotal case.

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