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Ofori-Atta changing into a ‘courageous coward’ – Franklin Cudjoe backs Arise Ghana protest – Life Pulse Daily

Introduction

The debate surrounding the return of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta to Ghana has intensified following strong comments from Franklin Cudjoe, the President of IMANI Africa. In a recent interview, Cudjoe expressed his unequivocal support for the planned protest organized by the pressure group Arise Ghana. The group intends to picket the United States Embassy in Accra to demand accountability and the physical return of Mr. Ofori-Atta to face investigative questioning. This article provides a detailed analysis of the situation, exploring the background of the controversy, the specific allegations, the legal implications, and practical advice for understanding civic protests in Ghana.

Key Points

Background

Ken Ofori-Atta’s Tenure as Finance Minister

Ken Ofori-Atta served as Ghana’s Finance Minister from 2017 to 2024 under the New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration. His tenure was marked by significant economic initiatives, including the introduction of the “Ghana CARES” programme and debt restructuring efforts. However, his period in office also faced scrutiny over fiscal management, particularly concerning rising public debt and specific procurement processes.

The Role of IMANI Africa

IMANI Africa is a leading pan-African think tank and policy research institute. Franklin Cudjoe, as its president, has been a vocal critic and analyst of governance and economic policies in Ghana. His endorsement of the protest lends intellectual and civic weight to the Arise Ghana initiative.

The Arise Ghana Movement

Arise Ghana is a coalition of youth and civil society groups focused on advocating for good governance and accountability. Their decision to picket the US Embassy is strategic, aiming to draw international attention to the issue of alleged impunity and the need for the former minister to face scrutiny within Ghana’s jurisdiction.

Analysis

The “Courageous Coward” Paradox

Franklin Cudjoe’s description of Ofori-Atta as a “brave coward” is a rhetorical device intended to highlight a perceived contradiction in the former minister’s actions. By maintaining a public profile while staying outside the country, Ofori-Atta projects a semblance of confidence or “courage.” However, Cudjoe argues that avoiding the jurisdiction of Ghanaian investigative bodies—specifically the Office of the Special Prosecutor—demonstrates a lack of accountability, hence the “coward” label.

The Nature of the OSP Investigations

The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) is an independent agency established under the Office of the Special Prosecutor Act, 2017 (Act 959). Its mandate includes investigating and prosecuting corruption and corruption-related offenses involving public officers and politically exposed persons.

The investigations into Ken Ofori-Atta reportedly focus on:
1. **COVID-19 Expenditure:** Scrutiny of funds used during the pandemic.
2. **Debt Restructuring:** Analysis of the terms and costs associated with Ghana’s debt management.
3. **Sole-Sourcing Contracts:** Examination of procurement processes that bypassed competitive bidding.

The Diplomatic Dimension

Picketing the United States Embassy is a tactic often used by activists to leverage diplomatic pressure. Since Ofori-Atta has been residing in the United States, protesters believe that drawing the attention of US authorities and the international community will expedite his return. It signals that the Ghanaian public is watching and expects cooperation with their legal systems.

The Right to Protest

Cudjoe’s support underscores a fundamental democratic principle: the right to demand accountability. In democratic governance, public officials are servants of the people. When questions arise regarding the use of public funds, citizens have the right to protest and demand answers. This aligns with Article 21 of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana, which guarantees the freedom of assembly.

Practical Advice

For Citizens Following the Issue

1. **Verify Sources:** In the age of social media, misinformation spreads rapidly. Rely on established media houses like Joy FM, Multimedia Group, and policy institutes like IMANI Africa for accurate updates.
2. **Understand the Legal Process:** Familiarize yourself with the functions of the Office of the Special Prosecutor. Knowing the difference between a criminal investigation and a political inquiry helps in forming an objective opinion.
3. **Engage in Constructive Dialogue:** When discussing the topic online or in person, focus on the facts—what is alleged, what the law says, and what the response has been—rather than resorting to personal attacks.

For Protesters

1. **Adhere to Police Procedures:** As noted in the original report, Arise Ghana has notified the Ghana Police Service. Peaceful protesters should ensure they follow all agreed-upon routes and times to maintain the legitimacy of their cause.
2. **Document Events:** Use video and photography to document the protest. This creates a historical record and protects against potential misrepresentation by counter-parties.
3. **Safety First:** Protests can be unpredictable. Participants should carry water, identification, and emergency contact numbers.

Regarding the Subject of Investigation

For any individual facing investigation by the OSP (or similar bodies):
1. **Legal Representation:** It is crucial to have competent legal counsel to navigate the complexities of the law.
2. **Communication:** Clear, transparent communication regarding one’s status (e.g., health issues) can mitigate public speculation, though it does not replace legal obligations.
3. **Cooperation:** While health and security are valid concerns, mechanisms exist for remote cooperation or secure travel arrangements to ensure compliance with lawful investigations.

FAQ

Conclusion

The situation involving Ken Ofori-Atta and the demands for his return highlights the ongoing tension between accountability and legal defense in Ghana’s governance. Franklin Cudjoe’s characterization of the former minister as a “courageous coward” captures the frustration felt by many Ghanaians who seek transparency regarding public finances. As Arise Ghana prepares to picket the US Embassy, the event serves as a reminder of the power of civic engagement. Whether through legal channels or public pressure, the demand for answers from public office holders remains a cornerstone of Ghana’s democracy. The outcome of these protests and investigations will likely set a precedent for how future allegations of financial misconduct are handled.