By: Franklin ASARE-DONKOH
A United States immigration court has reportedly 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 US immigration judge granted Ofori-Atta’s I-485 petition for adjustment of status, a ruling that clears the legal pathway for him to obtain permanent residency (Green Card).
The application was finalised during recent proceedings in the United States, where Ofori-Atta has been residing.
Medical leave vs. fugitive status
Ofori-Atta travelled to the US for specialised medical treatment following his tenure in office. During his absence, the OSP declared him a fugitive after he allegedly failed to appear for corruption-related questioning.
His legal team presented evidence of his medical condition and the political context of the investigation before the US court.
The US court reportedly focused strictly on statutory immigration requirements rather than foreign criminal allegations.
Legal experts note that granting adjustment of status reflects compliance with US immigration law and does not itself determine criminal liability in Ghana.
The OSP has not yet issued an official response regarding how the ruling may affect its ongoing investigations.
It should 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 Ghanaian courts and domestic legal processes.
