The Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyabeng, has informed the Accra High Court that the Republic is awaiting the outcome of proceedings in the United States involving former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta and extradition processes concerning Ernest Darko Akore.
The two are among eight accused persons including former Commissioners of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and SML Ghana Ltd , standing trial for allegedly causing financial loss to the state exceeding GH¢1.4 billion. Prosecutors claim the accused engaged in a scheme to improperly secure procurement contracts for Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited.
Six of the accused persons have pleaded not guilty and are currently on bail. They include former GRA Commissioner-General Emmanuel Kofi Nti, Isaac Crentsil, Ammishaddai Owusu-Amoah, and SML Chief Executive Officer Evans Adusei.
During proceedings on Thursday, February 26, the Special Prosecutor notified the court of an amended charge sheet and requested that the pleas of the accused persons be retaken. The four former GRA officials and the SML CEO pleaded not guilty to a total of 75 charges.
Addressing the absence of Mr Ofori-Atta and Mr Akore, Mr Agyabeng disclosed that the former Finance Minister was apprehended by US authorities on January 6, 2026, and remains in custody. He is facing two separate proceedings , one relating to an alleged immigration violation and another concerning an extradition request initiated this week.
Regarding Mr Akore, the Special Prosecutor said the US Department of Justice had sought guidance on whether Ghana preferred service of the charge sheet and summons before initiating extradition. The Office of the Special Prosecutor advised US authorities to adopt the most expeditious and judicious process. As of the latest court appearance, the summons had not yet been served on Mr Akore.
“In the circumstances, the Republic of Ghana is awaiting the outcome of these two proceedings in respect of A1 and the outcome of the extradition proceedings in respect of A2 before the state can advise the court on their presence,” Mr Agyabeng told the court.
The prosecution also requested additional time to complete its disclosures, noting that only two witness statements had been filed so far.
Presiding judge, Justice Francis Aponga Achibonga, granted the request and adjourned the case to March 26 for continuation.