By Jones Anlimah
Former Minister of Finance, Mr. Ken Ofori-Atta, has been detained by the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) over matters relating to the status of his continued stay in the United States.
Details on the official website of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s ICE Detainee Locator indicate that Mr. Ofori-Atta is currently in ICE custody at the Caroline Detention Facility in Bowling Green, Virginia, pending clarification of his immigration status.
His legal representatives in Ghana, MINKAH-PREMO, OSEI-BONSU BRUCE-CATHLINE & PARTNERS (OBB), confirmed the development in a public notice issued on Tuesday. The firm stated that Mr. Ofori-Atta has a pending petition for adjustment of status, which permits an individual to remain legally in the U.S. beyond the validity of their original visa while their application is processed.
According to OBB, “a change of status by this method is common under U.S. law,” adding that Mr. Ofori-Atta, described as a “law-abiding person,” is fully cooperating with U.S. authorities as his legal team works toward a resolution.
The notice further conveyed that his U.S. legal team is already in contact with ICE officials and expects the matter to be resolved expeditiously.
The ICE website also indicates that family members and legal representatives may seek further information through the Washington, DC ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) office.
Mr. Ofori-Atta served as Ghana’s Minister for Finance between 2017 and 2024, overseeing several fiscal reforms and economic policy initiatives during his tenure.
