OSP Rejects Link Between U.S. Immigration Decision and Case Against Ofori-Atta

The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has dismissed suggestions that ongoing criminal proceedings in Ghana against former Finance Minister Kenneth Nana Yaw Ofori-Atta influenced a reported United States immigration court decision allegedly granting him permanent residency.

The clarification follows media reports indicating that the embattled former minister had secured U.S. citizenship status for their client after reportedly obtaining a green card from the U.S. government. The reports further suggested that the immigration court had questioned the credibility of criminal charges filed by the OSP in Ghana.

In its response, the OSP said it had taken note of the media publications and an accompanying claim attributed to a Ghanaian law firm, but stressed that such interpretations were inaccurate and outside its mandate.

It explained that it is not involved in any immigration hearings in the United States concerning Mr. Ofori-Atta, adding that its role is strictly confined to Ghana’s domestic criminal justice processes.

According to the Office, its current engagement relates solely to extradition proceedings being pursued through Ghana’s Attorney-General, who serves as the central authority in such matters.

The OSP further clarified that the extradition documentation is not before any U.S. immigration court, and therefore cannot be a factor in immigration determinations abroad. It emphasized that questions regarding the credibility of criminal charges filed in Ghana remain within the exclusive jurisdiction of Ghanaian courts.

“The credibility or otherwise of the criminal charges against Mr. Ofori-Atta will be determined by the courts in Ghana, who have jurisdiction to determine his guilt or innocence,” the statement noted.

The Office also stressed that Mr. Ofori-Atta remains a Ghanaian citizen and continues to be subject to extradition proceedings should a competent court in the United States approve such a request under applicable legal processes.