Lawyers representing former Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, have announced that a United States immigration court has approved Mr Ofori-Atta’s application for lawful permanent residency, a move that, if confirmed, would allow him to remain in the US while facing criminal proceedings in Ghana.
The claim centres on the I-485 adjustment-of-status process, which permits eligible applicants already in the US to become permanent residents without leaving the country.
According to sources close to the case, the court’s decision referenced concerns raised during the proceedings, including testimony on international law enforcement procedures.
The Office of the Special Prosecutor in Ghana had previously declared Ofori-Atta a fugitive, though his lawyers maintain he was receiving medical treatment and remained in contact with investigators.
Crucially, even if the US ruling is confirmed, it carries no weight in Ghana’s domestic legal system.
The criminal charges against Ofori-Atta, relating to his tenure as Finance Minister under former President Akufo-Addo, remain active and subject solely to Ghanaian courts.
