Lawyers representing former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta have moved to challenge actions that could result in his deportation to Ghana after he was detained by United States immigration authorities for allegedly overstaying his visa.
Mr Ofori-Atta was arrested by officers of the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on Tuesday, setting in motion a process that could lead to his removal from the country. However, his legal team says measures are already underway to prevent that outcome.
In an interview with JoyNews, lawyer Frank Davies, a member of Ofori-Atta’s legal team, confirmed that attorneys in the United States have filed an application requesting an extension of his stay.
He explained that the request is aimed at enabling the former minister to continue medical treatment he is currently undergoing in the US.
According to Mr Davies, Ofori-Atta travelled to the United States for medical reasons and remains under the care of doctors who have advised him to stay on to complete a series of ongoing procedures.
He noted that under US immigration law, remaining in the country beyond the period authorised by a visa without formal approval renders a person’s stay unlawful and exposes them to deportation.
He added that individuals who wish to extend their stay must apply for permission, failing which they risk being repatriated.
Mr Ofori-Atta, who served as Finance Minister under the Akufo-Addo administration, has been embroiled in several controversies, including investigations and charges initiated by Ghana’s Office of the Special Prosecutor.
His legal team maintains that he has been in the United States since early 2025 solely for medical reasons.
While it is not yet clear when US authorities will rule on the application for an extension, his lawyers say they are optimistic that approval will be granted to allow him to complete his treatment.
