Former Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, is set to appear before a U.S. immigration court today, Tuesday, January 20, 2026, following his detention by U.S. authorities for allegedly living in the country without legal status.
The case, which has drawn high-level attention from both nations, centers not on a simple visa overstay but on the formal revocation of his visitor visa by U.S. authorities in June 2025.
Deputy Attorney-General, Justice Srem Sai, confirmed the severity of the situation, stating, “June 2025, his visa was revoked; it’s not an expiration… So he has been living in America without a visa.”
He made these remarks during an interview on TV3’s Key Points programme, rejecting earlier characterizations of the issue as routine.
Justice Srem Sai further disclosed that Ghanaian authorities collaborated with U.S. law enforcement leading to the detention, signaling close bilateral cooperation on the matter. “We are keenly involved,” he stated.
Officials indicate the court proceedings could pivot toward extradition.
Ofori-Atta is sought in Ghana by the Attorney-General’s Department and the Office of the Special Prosecutor for investigations into alleged financial improprieties, including matters related to the SML deal and the National Cathedral project.
“Ofori-Atta could be back in Ghana sooner than expected,” Justice Srem Sai hinted.
However, the former minister’s U.S. legal team has presented a different narrative.
In a January 7 notice, his lawyers from Menka-Premo, Osei-Bonsu, Bruce-Cathline and Partners confirmed the ICE detention but asserted his full cooperation.
They argued he maintains legal permission to stay due to a pending “petition for adjustment of status.”
“Under US law, a change of status by this method is common,” the legal team stated, characterizing Ofori-Atta as “a law-abiding person” working to resolve the matter quickly.
Ofori-Atta has been in the U.S. receiving treatment for a long-standing illness, complicating the immigration proceedings.
While his lawyers previously indicated he would return to Ghana voluntarily if needed, the current legal battle may now dictate the terms and timing of his return.
Today’s hearing is expected to provide critical clarity on his immigration status and the potential initiation of extradition proceedings, marking a significant turn in a case that bridges immigration law, international diplomacy, and high-profile financial probes.
