The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) in Ghana stands as a pivotal institution in the nation’s fight against corruption. Established in 2018 under the Office of the Special Prosecutor Act, 2017 (Act 959), the OSP operates as an autonomous and specialized agency dedicated to investigating and prosecuting corruption-related offenses across both public and private sectors. Its comprehensive mandate encompasses not only enforcement through prosecution but also proactive measures aimed at preventing corruption and recovering assets derived from illicit activities.
Mandate and Functions
The OSP’s multifaceted mandate is designed to address corruption through a holistic approach:
- Investigation and Prosecution: The OSP is empowered to investigate specific cases of alleged or suspected corruption involving public officials, politically exposed persons, and private individuals. This includes offenses under the Public Procurement Act of 2003 and other related legislations. Upon gathering sufficient evidence, the OSP proceeds to prosecute these offenses, operating independently of the traditional prosecutorial chain to ensure impartiality. citeturn0search3
- Asset Recovery and Management: Beyond prosecution, the OSP is tasked with recovering proceeds obtained through corrupt practices. This involves identifying, freezing, and confiscating assets acquired illicitly, thereby deterring potential offenders and restoring public resources. citeturn0search3
- Prevention of Corruption: Recognizing that enforcement alone is insufficient, the OSP implements measures to prevent corruption. This includes conducting risk assessments, advising public institutions on anti-corruption strategies, and promoting transparency and accountability within governmental and private entities.
Organizational Structure
The OSP’s governance is structured to ensure a diverse and multidisciplinary approach:
- Governing Body: Comprising the Special Prosecutor, Deputy Special Prosecutor, and representatives from key institutions such as the Audit Service, Ghana Police Service, Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO), Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC), Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), and a nominee with expertise in intelligence from the National Security Ministry. Additionally, a female representative from anti-corruption civil society organizations is included to provide a balanced perspective.
- Divisions: The OSP is organized into several divisions, each focusing on a specific aspect of its mandate:
- Investigations Division: Handles the probing of alleged corruption cases.
- Prosecutions Division: Manages the legal proceedings against individuals and entities found culpable.
- Asset Recovery and Management Division: Oversees the identification and confiscation of assets obtained through corrupt means.
- Strategy, Research, and Communications Division: Focuses on policy development, research initiatives, and public engagement to foster a culture of integrity.
- Operations Division: Ensures the smooth execution of the OSP’s day-to-day activities.
- Finance Division: Manages the financial resources and budgeting of the office.
- Human Resource and Administration Division: Oversees staffing, training, and administrative support.
Leadership
Since August 2021, the OSP has been led by Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng, who succeeded the inaugural Special Prosecutor, Martin Amidu. Under Agyebeng’s leadership, the OSP has intensified efforts to combat corruption, emphasizing both enforcement and preventive measures.
Recent Initiatives and Achievements
In its ongoing commitment to eradicate corruption, the OSP has undertaken several notable actions:
- Payroll Fraud Investigation: In February 2025, the OSP charged six individuals in the Northern Region for offenses related to payroll fraud and corruption. This move underscores the office’s dedication to addressing systemic corruption that undermines public trust and depletes national resources.
- High-Profile Prosecutions: The OSP has pursued cases against prominent figures, including the declaration of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta as “a wanted fugitive” in connection with alleged corrupt transactions. Such high-profile prosecutions signal the OSP’s resolve to hold individuals accountable for corrupt practices at all levels.
Public Engagement and Transparency
Transparency and public involvement are central to the OSP’s operations. The office maintains an active online presence, disseminating information through its official website and social media platforms. These channels provide updates on ongoing cases, publish reports, and offer resources to educate the public on anti-corruption measures. Additionally, the OSP encourages citizens to report suspected corruption, fostering a collaborative effort between the government and the populace in combating graft.
Challenges and the Way Forward
While the OSP has made significant strides, it faces challenges common to anti-corruption agencies worldwide, including political interference, resource constraints, and the complexity of financial crimes. To surmount these obstacles, the OSP continues to advocate for legislative support, capacity building, and enhanced collaboration with both domestic and international partners. By strengthening its institutional framework and fostering a culture of integrity, the OSP aims to make corruption prohibitively costly and decisively unattractive in Ghana.
Conclusion
The Office of the Special Prosecutor remains a cornerstone in Ghana’s anti-corruption architecture. Through its comprehensive approach—encompassing investigation, prosecution, asset recovery, and preventive measures—the OSP strives to promote transparency, accountability, and justice. As it navigates the complexities inherent in combating corruption, the OSP’s unwavering commitment serves as a beacon of hope for a more equitable and prosperous Ghana.
Location
6 Haile Selassie Avenue,
South Ridge
Accra-Ghana
Website
https://osp.gov.gh/