Former Minister for Finance, Mr Ken Ofori-Atta, has been detained by the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) over matters related to his status in the country.
According to a press release issued by his legal representatives, Menka Premo of Osei Bonsu Bruce Cathline and Partners, the detention occurred on Wednesday, January 7, while discussions continue between ICE officials and Mr Ofori-Atta’s U.S. legal team.
The statement explained that the situation stems from ongoing immigration procedures. “Mr Ofori-Atta has a pending petition for adjustment of status, which authorises a person to stay in the US legally past the period of validity of their visa. Under US law, a change of status by this method is common,” the lawyers clarified.
The legal team further indicated that they remain optimistic that the matter will be resolved soon, noting that communication with ICE is ongoing and cooperative. They emphasised Mr Ofori-Atta’s willingness to comply fully with legal processes, stating that “the public is therefore advised to note that Mr Ken Ofori-Atta, as a law-abiding person, is fully cooperating with ICE to have this issue resolved.”
Mr Ofori-Atta, who served as Ghana’s Finance Minister for several years, has been in the United States while his immigration adjustment petition is under review. His lawyers have assured the public that the situation is procedural and not uncommon under U.S. immigration laws.
Further updates are expected as discussions between ICE officials and his legal team progress.
