Omanghana
In a statement issued on July 21, 2026, the OSP clarified that the outcome of Mr. Ofori-Atta’s U.S. immigration proceedings only addressed his immigration status and had no legal impact on Ghana’s ongoing investigations, extradition efforts, or criminal prosecution.
The statement followed reports concerning a U.S. immigration court transcript in which Judge David Gardey reportedly noted the absence of “credible evidence” in relation to allegations considered during the immigration proceedings. The hearing eventually resulted in approval for Ofori-Atta to obtain permanent residency status in the United States.
OSP Separates Three Legal Matters
The Special Prosecutor’s Office explained that Ken Ofori-Atta is currently connected to three separate legal matters, each governed by different laws and procedures.
According to the OSP, the conclusion of one matter does not influence or determine the outcome of the others.
1. U.S. Immigration Proceedings
The OSP stated that the immigration case before the court in Annandale, Virginia, was strictly an administrative matter concerning Ofori-Atta’s right to remain in the United States.
The proceedings followed his detention in January 2026 after he allegedly remained in the country after his visa had been revoked.
The office emphasized that the immigration court was only tasked with determining issues relating to residency and immigration status, not whether he had committed any criminal offences in Ghana.
2. Extradition Proceedings
The OSP further clarified that Ghana’s extradition request against Ofori-Atta was not part of the U.S. immigration hearing.
According to the statement, the formal extradition process, which is being handled through Ghana’s Attorney-General, was never submitted before the immigration court and therefore was outside the scope of the judge’s authority.
The OSP stressed that the immigration ruling cannot be interpreted as a decision on the validity or strength of Ghana’s criminal allegations.
3. Criminal Case in Ghana
The Special Prosecutor maintained that Ofori-Atta continues to face serious corruption-related charges before the High Court in Accra.
The former Finance Minister has been accused in connection with alleged financial misconduct and abuse of office matters arising from his time in government.
The OSP stated that the criminal proceedings remain active and that the former minister is still required to return to Ghana to face the justice system.
OSP Rejects Claims of Legal Victory
The OSP warned against interpreting the U.S. immigration decision as an exoneration from criminal allegations in Ghana.
The office explained that immigration proceedings operate under different legal standards from criminal trials and do not determine guilt or innocence in criminal matters.
It maintained that only a Ghanaian court with jurisdiction over the criminal charges can determine the outcome of the allegations against Ofori-Atta.
Calls for Cooperation Continue
The declaration comes amid ongoing efforts by Ghanaian authorities to secure the former minister’s appearance before the courts.
The OSP reiterated its commitment to pursuing accountability in corruption-related cases and urged the public to distinguish between immigration decisions and criminal justice proceedings.
The office maintained that Ken Ofori-Atta’s status as a wanted person remains unchanged until he appears before the appropriate Ghanaian authorities and addresses the charges against him.
Source: Omanghana
