Ken Ofori-Atta, is the former Minister of Finance
The bond hearing for former finance minister Ken Ofori-Atta is scheduled for February 19, 2026, in the United States, as a federal judge examines whether Ghanaian authorities have formally submitted an extradition request.
Judge David A Gardey told lawyers handling Ofori-Atta’s immigration case that the court “cannot act on assertions without proof,” insisting that documented evidence of an extradition request be provided today before he considers any decision on bond or release, according to a report by myjoyonline.com.
This hearing comes after a closed-door session on January 20, 2026, when the judge paused deliberations on Ofori-Atta’s bail application. At that time, state attorneys opposed his release, pointing to the pending extradition effort by Ghana.
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Ofori-Atta, who served as finance minister under the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) government, has been detained by the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) since early January, while his immigration status is reviewed. Prosecutors say his visitor visa was revoked, leaving him without a lawful basis to remain in the country.
In his defense, Ofori-Atta’s lawyers highlighted his cooperation with authorities and noted that he is pursuing legal avenues, including an adjustment of status petition that could allow him to stay in the US legally under current immigration law.
Meanwhile, Ghanaian authorities have moved to secure his extradition to face charges back home a process that depends on the formal documentation now required by the court.
Adding another twist, INTERPOL recently removed a Red Notice against Ofori-Atta. His lawyers say the action was due to the notice’s “predominantly political” character, which they argue further complicates the extradition case.
For now, all eyes are on the hearing, which could determine whether Ofori-Atta will remain in detention or be granted bond while the legal processes unfold.
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Ofori-Atta has been charged with 78 counts of corruption and corruption-related offences.
The charges were filed by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) on November 18, 2025, following a detailed investigation into alleged financial misconduct.
NA/AM
Watch as Dr Bawumia, Bola Ray pay tribute to late Alhaji Sidick:
Source:
www.ghanaweb.com