Private legal practitioner Richard Nii Armah believes that the prospect of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta returning to Ghana is uncertain and akin to a fifty-fifty gamble.
He explained that Mr Ofori-Atta’s detention in the United States was not related to an extradition request but rather due to his visa expiration.
Speaking on Rainbow Nyankonton Mu Nsem, Mr Armah stated that Ken Ofori-Atta’s liability for deportation stems from overstaying his visa, not from any extradition request from the Office of the Special Prosecutor or the Attorney General.
Meanwhile, Ken Ofori-Atta’s lawyers have asserted that their client is cooperating with U.S. authorities to resolve the situation, which has garnered varied reactions in Ghana.
Mr Armah further opined that there is a possibility that Mr Ofori-Atta’s application for renewal could be granted if he can demonstrate that he is facing political persecution.
“Ken Ofori-Atta is being held for overstaying. His arrest has nothing to do with any extradition application. There is a possibility that he could be deported back to Ghana. This is a 50-50 chance that his application for renewal or permanent stay could be approved. How the case is. Complex matter. He is wanted in Ghana to face prosecution. He has also applied to the US, claiming that he is being politically persecuted. There is the likelihood that his application could succeed. However, his arrest by ICE could also get him deported.”
Additionally, he noted that the existing extradition request from the Special Prosecutor’s office would not sway the U.S. court’s or ICE’s decision to deport Ken Ofori-Atta to Ghana unless he is found guilty of overstaying his visa, in which case he could be deported back home.
He advised authorities in Ghana to put their house in order and ensure that they take advantage of the current situation in ensuring that they are able to arrest Ken Ofori-Atta so he will come home and face prosecution in the case pending before court.
He is currently being tried in absentia with over 70 charges, including causing financial loss to the state, money laundering, and stealing, among others.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
