The High Court in Accra has postponed the criminal case involving former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta and seven others to September 29, 2026.
The case, which centres on alleged corruption involving Strategic Mobilization Ghana Limited (SML) and the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), was adjourned after the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) requested more time to serve court summons on two of the accused persons.
Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng told the court that efforts were still being made to serve Mr Ofori-Atta and his former Chief of Cabinet, Ernest Darko Akore, who are currently in the United States.
When the case was called on Thursday, August 27, the lawyers were asked to meet the trial judge, Justice Francis Apanga Achibonga, in his chambers.
Following the discussions, the judge announced the new date and indicated that he expected the summons to be served within the additional period.
Mr Ofori-Atta is facing 28 charges relating to corruption and corruption-related offences. The charges are linked to contracts between SML and the GRA that were meant to provide revenue assurance services.
The OSP alleges that the arrangements caused financial losses of more than GH¢1.4 billion to the state.
Other accused persons include former GRA Commissioners-General Emmanuel Kofi Nti and Ammishaddai Owusu-Amoah. Former Customs Division Commissioners Isaac Crentsil and Kwadwo Damoah are also facing charges.
The remaining accused are Ernest Darko Akore, SML Chief Executive Officer Evans Adusei, and Strategic Mobilization Ghana Limited itself.
Those who have received the court summons have pleaded not guilty to the charges and are expected to defend themselves as the case progresses.
The case follows investigations by the OSP into contracts awarded to SML by the GRA and concerns raised over payments made under the agreements.
The prosecution is expected to use the additional time before the next hearing to complete the process of serving the outstanding summons.
The court will reconvene on September 29, when further steps in the case are expected to be determined.
