Ghana’s former Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, is facing a critical deportation hearing in a US immigration court today, as he seeks to adjust his immigration status. The hearing, which will be conducted virtually, is a redetermination of a bail bond request previously denied by the judge, according to US Immigration Lawyer, Jonelle Ocloo.
Ofori-Atta was taken into custody by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on January 6, reportedly due to his visa being revoked. The Ghanaian Attorney-General, Dr. Dominic Ayine, has confirmed that the visa was indeed revoked, citing ongoing investigations into Ofori-Atta’s activities as Finance Minister.
According to Ghana’s Attorney-General, Ofori-Atta could face deportation if the court rules against him. The former minister is facing multiple corruption charges in Ghana, including allegations of causing financial loss to the state through his involvement in several transactions during his tenure.
Ofori-Atta’s legal team, which includes former US Attorney General John Ashcroft, maintains that the hearing is merely an administrative process and that their client is “happy” and in “good spirits”. However, civic watchdogs in Ghana are skeptical, arguing that Ofori-Atta’s decision to remain abroad while facing charges damages his public standing.
The outcome of today’s hearing is expected to influence the pace of formal extradition proceedings. If deported, Ofori-Atta will face trial in Ghana for the alleged corruption charges.
Call or WhatsApp +233 20 2190 250 and share your story.
Author: Korkor Anumu
