Ghana’s Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dr Dominic Ayine, has confirmed that the United States visa of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori Atta was officially revoked in July 2025. According to him, recent reports suggesting that Ofori Atta was merely overstaying his visa are inaccurate and misleading.
Dr Ayine explained that the visa revocation was a deliberate decision taken by US authorities and not the result of an expired travel document. He disclosed that after the visa was withdrawn, Ofori Atta was granted a specific period within which to voluntarily leave the United States. However, he failed to depart within the stipulated timeframe, which later triggered immigration enforcement action.
The Attorney General emphasized that the matter goes beyond a routine immigration issue. He noted that the visa revocation forms part of broader legal and diplomatic processes involving cooperation between Ghanaian and US authorities. These processes are reportedly linked to ongoing investigations and possible extradition proceedings involving the former minister.
Dr Ayine further revealed that arrangements were initially made for Ofori Atta to be taken into custody earlier in January 2026, but those plans did not materialize at the time. He was later detained by US immigration officials days afterward. The former finance minister is currently being held as legal procedures continue.
The clarification from the Attorney General comes amid intense public interest and political debate surrounding Ofori Atta’s legal situation. Government officials insist that accurate information is necessary to avoid speculation and misinformation, particularly given the high profile nature of the case.
As the matter unfolds, authorities say further updates will be provided in line with due process and international legal cooperation.
