The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has once again declared former Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, wanted, despite reports that a United States immigration court has granted his I-485 petition, allowing him to proceed with obtaining lawful permanent resident status, commonly known as a Green Card.
The OSP has clarified that it is not involved in any immigration proceedings concerning Mr. Ofori-Atta in the United States.
According to the anti-corruption agency, its interest in the former minister relates solely to extradition proceedings being pursued through Ghana’s Attorney-General, who serves as the central authority in such matters.
The OSP emphasized that the extradition request submitted against Mr. Ofori-Atta is separate from the immigration case and is not before the US immigration court. The office further noted that any determination regarding the criminal allegations against the former finance minister falls within the jurisdiction of Ghanaian courts.
“The credibility or otherwise of the criminal charges against Mr. Ofori-Atta will be determined by the courts in Ghana, which have the authority to establish his guilt or innocence,” the OSP stated.
The office also pointed out that Mr. Ofori-Atta remains a citizen of Ghana despite his successful immigration petition in the United States. As such, he remains subject to extradition to Ghana should the appropriate US extradition court approve the request.
The latest development comes after a US immigration court reportedly approved Mr. Ofori-Atta’s application for lawful permanent residency, a move that has generated significant public interest amid ongoing efforts by Ghanaian authorities to secure his return to face legal proceedings.
The OSP maintains that its pursuit of the former minister remains active and unaffected by the outcome of his immigration case in the United States.
