Founder of Union Government, Akwasi Addai Odike, has described former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta as a major political liability for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), arguing that the party’s political prospects could be affected as long as Mr Ofori-Atta remains a fugitive from justice.
Speaking on Ahotor FM’s Yepe Ahunu programme on Saturday, September 26, 2026, in Accra, Akwasi Addai Odike said the issues surrounding the former Finance Minister would remain an important subject of public discussion.
According to him, the NPP should not expect to regain political power while the matter involving Ken Ofori-Atta remains unresolved.
He described Mr Ofori-Atta as a “turn-off” for the NPP and said the party would have to confront the issue as part of its broader accountability concerns.
Akwasi Addai Odike further disclosed that the Union Government intends to use the issue involving Ken Ofori-Atta as part of its campaign message to the Ghanaian electorate.
He said the group would use the matter to raise questions about economic management, accountability and the responsibilities of public officials.
His comments come amid legal proceedings involving Mr Ofori-Atta and other accused persons in the Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML) case.
The Office of the Special Prosecutor has brought corruption-related charges against Mr Ofori-Atta and other accused persons. The allegations remain before the courts, and the accused persons are presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
Akwasi Addai Odike said accountability must apply to every person who has occupied public office, regardless of political affiliation or former position.
He argued that parliamentary or political status should not prevent lawful investigations or proceedings when a person is acting in a private capacity.
He also stressed the need for Ghana to build institutions that operate within a fair and credible legal environment.
According to him, the broader issue goes beyond one individual and concerns the kind of political and economic system Ghana wants to build.
He maintained that Ghana needs leadership committed to creating jobs, strengthening local industries, adding value to natural resources and reducing excessive dependence on foreign economies.
Story by Stephen Kwaku Owusu Mintah