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The Embassy of Ghana in Washington, DC, has confirmed that former Minister for Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta, is currently in the custody of United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
In a press release issued on January 10, the embassy said it received information regarding Mr. Ofori-Atta’s detention and immediately took steps to verify the circumstances surrounding the matter with the appropriate US authorities.
Following confirmation, the embassy formally contacted the relevant detention facility to request access to Mr. Ofori-Atta in order to provide consular assistance, in line with established diplomatic and international protocols.
However, the embassy disclosed that officials at the detention facility indicated that Mr. Ofori-Atta declined to engage with consular representatives at the time, opting not to meet without the presence of his legal team.
The statement noted that the embassy respects the decision of the former finance minister while continuing to observe all applicable diplomatic procedures in the matter.
The Embassy of Ghana in Washington, DC, further assured that it remains in active contact with the appropriate United States authorities and is closely monitoring developments related to the detention.
According to the embassy, these efforts are aimed at ensuring that Mr. Ofori-Atta’s rights are fully respected in accordance with international law and due process.
The statement was signed by Ghana’s Ambassador to the United States, Victor Emmanuel Smith, and dated December 10, 2026.
