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Ken Ofori-Atta’s case adjourned to April 27.
Detention by ICE: Ken Ofori-Atta’s case adjourned to April 27
Former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta appeared in a U.S. immigration court on January 20, 2026, regarding the revocation of his U.S. visa and his immigration status. Due to intense public interest overwhelming the virtual hearing link, which drew many Ghanaians online, the judge approved his lawyers’ request to conduct the proceedings privately. During the session, Ofori-Atta was observed wearing a dark shirt and a face mask. The case has been adjourned to April 27, 2026.The matter stems from his arrest and detention by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on January 7, 2026. His legal team, through the firm Menka-Premo, Osei-Bonsu, Bruce-Cathline and Partners, issued a public statement explaining that Ofori-Atta had a pending application for adjustment of status, which legally allows someone to remain in the U.S. beyond their visa’s validity a standard process under U.S. immigration law. They emphasized that he is cooperating fully with authorities and anticipates a swift resolution.
Ghana’s Attorney-General, Dr. Dominic Ayine, and Deputy Justice Srem-Sai clarified on TV3’s The KeyPoints that the visa was actively revoked in June 2025 (with some sources citing July 2025), not merely expired. They stated this revocation led to his loss of lawful status, prompting ICE action contrary to suggestions of a routine expiration or overstay. U.S. visas can be revoked for reasons such as ineligibility, status violations, fraud, or other grounds of inadmissibility.
The hearing aimed to address whether Ofori-Atta can remain in the United States or face deportation/removal. Ofori-Atta is wanted in Ghana by the Attorney-General and the Office of the Special Prosecutor for alleged offenses tied to the SML deal, the National Cathedral project, and other matters. He has been in the U.S. seeking medical treatment for a chronic illness.
Editor:
Obiri-Yeboah
