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Office of Special Prosecutor clarifies trial in absentia conditions for Ken Ofori-Atta

The Office of the Special Prosecutor OSP has addressed discussions regarding a trial in absentia for former finance minister Ken Ofori-Atta, stating that the legal requirements for such a proceeding have not yet been met. Sammy Darko, Director of Strategy, Research, and Communications at the OSP, explained that formal service of charges is incomplete. He clarified that a trial in absentia is initiated when a properly charged and notified individual refuses to appear in court, not merely upon the filing of charges. Darko emphasized that Article 193 of the Constitution requires "duly notified" status before a person can be tried in absentia, clarifying that this does not include social media, phone calls, or informing lawyers. While charges have been filed and court approval for service in the United States has been granted, the process is incomplete until official proof of service is returned. Once service is confirmed, the accused must still be given reasonable time to appear before further steps are considered. The OSP's stance highlights a meticulous adherence to constitutional procedures in this case.