President John Dramani Mahama has stated that Ghana must exercise patience regarding the extradition case of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, as the matter is currently before the American judiciary.
Speaking on Monday, March 30, during a Presidential Dialogue with Civil Society Organisations at Jubilee House, President Mahama explained that he could not comment extensively on the issue because it falls outside Ghana’s jurisdiction.
“I cannot comment on the extradition of our former Finance Minister because it is in a different jurisdiction… we just have to be patient for the law to play out in that jurisdiction. It is not within our jurisdiction, but the American judiciary…” the President said.
Ghana has formally requested the extradition of Mr Ofori-Atta from the United States to face multiple corruption-related charges. The request forms part of investigation into alleged financial impropriety during his tenure as Finance Minister between 2017 and 2024.
Mr Ofori-Atta is currently in the United States, where he was detained in January by federal immigration authorities over visa-related issues. He is reportedly seeking permanent residency in the US while contesting Ghana’s extradition request.
A United States federal judge has demanded documentary proof of Ghana’s extradition request, highlighting the legal complexities involved in the proceedings.