Lawyers Move to Prevent Deportation of Ken Ofori-Atta to Ghana After US Visa Overstay
Lawyers representing former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta are moving to block any attempt by United States authorities to deport him to Ghana after he was detained for overstaying his visa.
Mr Ofori-Atta was arrested by officers of the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on Tuesday, setting in motion procedures that could result in his removal from the country. However, his legal team says measures are already underway to regularise his stay and avert deportation.
In an interview with JoyNews on Thursday, January 8, 2025, a member of his legal team, Frank Davies, disclosed that lawyers acting on Mr Ofori-Atta’s behalf in the United States have filed an application seeking an extension of his stay.
Mr Davies explained that the request is intended to enable the former minister to continue medical treatment currently underway in the US.
“He travelled for a medical procedure and is still under treatment in consultation with his doctors. He has been advised to remain to complete the repetitive procedures being administered,” he stated.
He noted that under US immigration regulations, remaining in the country beyond the validity of a visa without formal approval renders one’s stay unlawful.
“Ordinarily, if you intend to stay beyond the period permitted under your visa, you must apply for an extension. Failing that, your stay becomes illegal, and you become liable for repatriation,” Mr Davies added.
Mr Ofori-Atta, who served as Finance Minister under the Akufo-Addo administration, has been the subject of multiple controversies, including investigations and charges brought by Ghana’s Office of the Special Prosecutor.
His legal team has consistently maintained that he has been in the United States since early 2025 solely for medical reasons.
While the timing of a decision by US immigration authorities on the extension request remains uncertain, his lawyers say they are optimistic that approval will be granted to allow him to complete his treatment.
