Investigative journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni says the legal fate of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta is now largely in the hands of United States authorities and the courts, as immigration and extradition processes continue to unfold.
Speaking on Citi FM’s The Big Issue on Saturday, April 11, Awuni said a substantive hearing in the case is expected around April 27, where key decisions regarding Ofori-Atta’s immigration status and possible next steps will be considered.
He noted that although the former minister is currently on bail, there are reports suggesting health concerns may have influenced aspects of his release. However, he stressed that the final decision on his movements and legal status does not rest with him.
“As to whether or not he will come, we seem to be very convinced that on his own he is unwilling to come down, but that is not entirely in his hands,” he said.
According to Awuni, both U.S. immigration authorities and the courts will determine the outcome of the matter, especially given that Ofori-Atta is believed to have overstayed his visa, which expired on February 14.
He added that efforts may be underway by the former minister to regularise his stay, but emphasized that multiple institutions are now involved in the decision-making process.
“Everything now rests with the courts and the immigration authorities and also the government of the US,” he stated.
Awuni further suggested that, based on current developments, it appears unlikely that Ofori-Atta will voluntarily return to Ghana to face ongoing legal proceedings, although he cautioned that the situation could still change depending on the April 27 hearing.
Ofori-Atta, who served under former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, is facing multiple criminal charges in Ghana linked to corruption-related investigations, while Ghanaian authorities continue to pursue extradition processes to secure his return.
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