The Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dr. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, has disclosed that former Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta, is scheduled to appear before an immigration judge in the United States on January 20, 2026.
According to Dr. Ayine, the development follows Ofori-Atta’s arrest and detention by the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on January 6, 2026, in Washington, DC, after the revocation of his US visa.
Speaking on the matter, the Attorney General explained that Ofori-Atta is entitled to pursue several levels of appeal under US law should the immigration court rule against him. He noted that the former finance minister could challenge the decision at the district court, proceed to a circuit court of appeals, and potentially seek redress at the US Supreme Court.
“In this current matter, he will appear before an immigration judge on January 20, 2026. He has a right to appeal that decision to a district court. From there, it can go to a circuit court of appeals, and then to the United States Supreme Court,” Dr. Ayine stated.
He added that the outcome of these legal processes would determine whether Ofori-Atta is permitted to remain in the United States or is repatriated to Ghana if he does not voluntarily return.
“If he does not self-deport, this is the legal pathway that will determine whether he is removed from the United States,” the Attorney General explained.
Dr. Ayine further indicated that any potential extradition proceedings would follow a similar multi-tier judicial process, beginning at the district court level and progressing through the appellate courts if challenged.
“In an extradition case, a district court will first hear the matter and determine whether to extradite him. If he is dissatisfied with that decision, he may appeal to a circuit court and ultimately to the Supreme Court of the United States,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Attorney General assured Ghanaians and the legal representatives of Ofori-Atta that the former minister would be guaranteed a fair trial if returned to Ghana.
Dr. Ayine revealed that former US Attorney General John Ashcroft had contacted him, indicating that he represents Ofori-Atta in the matter and sought assurances regarding his client’s treatment upon his return to Ghana.
“I assured him that under this government and in accordance with Article 19 of the Constitution, Ken Ofori-Atta’s right to a fair trial is guaranteed. He will be accorded due process of law, and his fair trial rights will be fully protected,” Dr. Ayine said.