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Ofori-Atta is Changing into a “Brave Coward” – Franklin Cudjoe Backs Arise Ghana Protest

Introduction

The political atmosphere in Ghana remains charged as civil society organizations and political figures weigh in on the absence of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta. Recently, Franklin Cudjoe, the founding president of IMANI Africa—a leading policy think tank in West Africa—has voiced strong support for the civil society group Arise Ghana. Their collective demand is clear: Mr. Ofori-Atta must return to Ghana to answer questions regarding alleged financial malfeasance during his tenure.

In this article, we explore the context of these allegations, the specific comments made by Franklin Cudjoe, and the broader implications for accountability and governance in Ghana. We will break down the key points, background context, and practical advice for understanding this developing political story.

Key Points

Background

To understand the gravity of the current protests, it is essential to review Ken Ofori-Atta’s tenure as Ghana’s Finance Minister. Serving from 2017 to 2024 under the New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration, Ofori-Atta was a central figure in Ghana’s economic management. He oversaw significant initiatives such as the “Year of Return” and managed the country’s debt portfolio during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Rise of Controversy

Despite his tenure’s length, the final years were marred by economic challenges, including high inflation and currency depreciation. However, the specific controversy driving the current protests involves financial accountability. The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) launched investigations into specific transactions approved during his time in office. These include:

• Growth Assurance Contracts: Agreements intended to secure future revenue streams.
• Debt Restructuring: Processes regarding Ghana’s sovereign debt management.
• Sole-Sourcing Arrangements: Procurement deals awarded without competitive bidding.

These issues have placed Ofori-Atta at the center of public scrutiny, leading to calls for his return from abroad to face questioning.

Analysis

Franklin Cudjoe’s commentary on Joy FM’s Top Story provides a nuanced critique of the former minister’s behavior. Cudjoe’s description of Ofori-Atta as a “brave coward” is a rhetorical device intended to highlight a contradiction: the courage to hold high office, juxtaposed with the perceived cowardice of avoiding accountability.

The “Brave Coward” Paradox

Cudjoe’s statement, “He is suddenly becoming a brave coward,” suggests a loss of integrity. In democratic governance, accountability is the bedrock of legitimacy. When public officials face allegations, their willingness to engage with investigative bodies—such as the OSP—signals respect for the rule of law. By remaining abroad, Ofori-Atta risks being perceived as evading the legal processes he once oversaw.

Civil Society and Democratic Rights

Cudjoe emphasizes that the right to demand answers from duty bearers is fundamental. This aligns with constitutional principles that empower citizens to hold public servants accountable. The support from a figure like Cudjoe, known for data-driven policy analysis, lends significant weight to the Arise Ghana protest. It transforms a potential political grievance into a broader civil rights issue centered on transparency.

Respect for State Institutions

A critical aspect of Cudjoe’s analysis is the alleged disrespect shown to the Office of the Special Prosecutor. He notes that Ofori-Atta and his legal team have, in his view, “malign[ed] the OSP,” portraying it as ineffective or a “toy.” This perception undermines the credibility of Ghana’s anti-corruption architecture. If high-profile individuals can delegitimize investigative bodies through absence or legal maneuvering, it sets a dangerous precedent for the enforcement of accountability laws.

Practical Advice: How to Follow This Story

For citizens, students, and observers wishing to stay informed about this developing situation, the following steps are recommended:

1. Verify Sources

Political news can be polarized. Rely on established media houses in Ghana, such as Joy News and Multimedia Group, for primary reporting. Cross-reference these with reports from independent policy think tanks like IMANI Africa.

2. Understand the Legal Framework

Familiarize yourself with the Office of the Special Prosecutor Act, 2017 (Act 959). Understanding the specific powers of the OSP helps in assessing whether the demands for Ofori-Atta’s return are legally grounded or politically motivated.

3. Monitor Official Statements

Keep an eye on official press releases from the OSP regarding the status of investigations. Similarly, follow updates from Arise Ghana regarding the logistics and permits for their planned protest at the U.S. Embassy.

4. Engage in Constructive Dialogue

Use social media and community forums to discuss the importance of accountability, rather than engaging in partisan vitriol. The focus should remain on the principle that every citizen, regardless of status, must answer to the law.

FAQ

Conclusion

The call by Franklin Cudjoe and Arise Ghana for Ken Ofori-Atta to return to Ghana highlights a critical moment in Ghana’s democratic journey. It underscores the tension between high political office and the rule of law. Cudjoe’s characterization of the former minister as a “brave coward” serves as a potent reminder that accountability is not optional—it is a prerequisite for public trust. As the planned protest at the U.S. Embassy approaches, the spotlight remains firmly on the mechanisms of justice in Ghana and the obligation of public officials to submit to them.