A US court approved “fugitive” Ofori-Atta’s Green Card application -Legal Team

A United States immigration court has approved the permanent residency application of Ghana’s former Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, according to his legal team.

The decision comes despite his designation as a “fugitive from justice” by Ghana’s Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP).

The presiding U.S. immigration judge granted Ofori-Atta’s I-485 petition for Adjustment of Status. This ruling officially clears the legal pathway for the former minister to obtain a Green Card.

The application was finalized during recent judicial proceedings in the United States, where Ofori-Atta has been residing.

Medical Leave vs. Fugitive Status:

Ofori-Atta travelled to the U.S. for specialized medical treatment following his tenure in office. During his absence, the OSP declared him a fugitive after he failed to appear for corruption-related questioning.

His legal team presented evidence of his medical condition and the political context of the investigation to the U.S. court.

The U.S. court focused strictly on statutory immigration requirements rather than foreign political charges.

Legal experts note that granting permanent residency suggests the court found no valid ground for inadmissibility under U.S. law.

The OSP has not yet issued an official response regarding how this ruling impacts their ongoing investigations.

It must be emphasised that even if confirmed, a decision under US immigration law does not determine criminal liability in Ghana. Any charges against Mr Ofori-Atta remain subject to the jurisdiction of Ghanaian courts and ongoing domestic legal processes.

By: Franklin ASARE-DONKOH