Akufo-Addo denies lobbying ‘safe passage’ for Ken Ofori-Atta’s return

The Office of former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has strongly denied media reports suggesting that the former Head of State is seeking the intervention of President John Dramani Mahama to guarantee the return or “safe passage” of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta.

In a rejoinder dated December 16, 2025, the Office described as “utterly false” a publication by The Herald newspaper, which alleged that Nana Akufo-Addo was considering approaching President Mahama for assurances regarding Ofori-Atta’s safety and legal status.

The statement said the claim was a “total fabrication” and insisted that no such approach had been contemplated, discussed, or communicated—either directly or indirectly—to President Mahama or any of his representatives.

According to the Office, the former President has not made, and does not intend to make, any request that could be interpreted as interference in legal or constitutional processes.

It stressed that President Akufo-Addo’s public record as a believer in democratic governance and the rule of law remains intact and unquestioned.

The clarification comes against the backdrop of heightened political and public scrutiny surrounding the tenure of Ken Ofori-Atta, who served as Finance Minister in the Nana Akufo-Addo’s two-term presidency.

Ofori-Atta, a central figure in the recent economic management, has been at the heart of debates over public debt, fiscal consolidation, IMF negotiations, and controversial revenue and financial sector policies implemented during the Akufo-Addo administration.

Since the change in government, speculation has intensified about possible investigations into decisions taken under the previous administration, particularly those linked to economic management.

These developments have fueled media commentary and political narratives about the personal and political relationships between former officeholders and the potential legal consequences they may face.

While acknowledging that the former President is naturally concerned about Ofori-Atta’s situation, the Office clarified that this concern should not be misconstrued. It stated that the concern arises not only from their familial relationship—they are cousins—but also from the fact that Ofori-Atta served as Finance Minister during both terms of Akufo-Addo’s presidency.

However, the statement was categorical that such concern does not translate into any attempt to obstruct justice or influence due process.

The Office further demanded that media outlets which carried or amplified the original publication reproduce the rejoinder in full, citing the former President’s right of reply under established media and constitutional principles.